Home for the Holidays

There’s something truly magical about Christmas at Lake Oconee. The festive lights at the Ritz, the ice skating rink, the gatherings with friends and family—all come together to create a holiday season like no other. But as the years pass and our children grow, our family’s holiday traditions have evolved, shifting from the bustling excitement of little kids running around to the reflective joy of a quieter, more intimate celebration.

When our children Stu and Remi were young, Christmas at Lake Oconee was all about tradition. From decorating the tree to baking cookies, every moment was filled with wonder. We’d spend days picking out the perfect live tree, each child carefully choosing ornaments and proudly placing them.

Our family traditions included driving through the beautifully decorated neighborhoods of Greshamville and Farmington. We’d bundle up and drive around to see the lights, each display a delight for young eyes that glistened with excitement. Christmas morning was a joyful frenzy of wrapping paper, squeals of delight, and unwrapping presents as if each was the most precious gift ever received. Those years were filled with the laughter and boundless energy of young kids experiencing the wonder of Christmas.

As our kids grew so did their independence, and Christmas traditions subtly shifted. With each passing year, our gatherings included more friends, more laughter, and a few new traditions. Our family dinners became a time to bond, not just over gifts but through stories and laughter around the table, as our teens became young adults eager to share their own thoughts, dreams, and experiences. The magic of the season remained, though it was now woven with a blend of nostalgia and growth.

Now, as empty nesters, Christmas has taken on a different rhythm. With our kids away at college, the holidays bring a cherished opportunity to come together, even if just for a few days. The bustling energy of little ones running through the house has transformed into the warmth of quiet conversations and the joy of simply being together.

When our children come home, it feels as though Lake Oconee itself welcomes them back with open arms. The familiar sights, sounds, and smells evoke memories of their childhoods, grounding them in the sense of home we’ve built here. Our holiday traditions have become more about connection and gratitude—cherishing the time we have together, even as we know it’s fleeting.

Throughout these changes, the Lake Oconee community has remained a comforting constant. The annual lighting at the Ritz, gingerbread house and holiday  parties remind me that while our personal traditions may evolve, the spirit of Christmas at Lake Oconee remains as  joyful as ever. Here, the season is not only about family but also about the connections and friendships we’ve made over the years. We may be empty nesters, but we’re far from alone, surrounded by a community that feels like extended family.

As I reflect on how our family’s Christmas celebrations have evolved, I am grateful for the memories of holidays past and look forward to those yet to come. Lake Oconee will always be home, a place where traditions may change, but the spirit of the season remains beautifully timeless.