Christmas Memories by the Fireside - Otterbein Cridersville

At Otterbein Cridersville, we treasure the stories that connect generations. As the holiday season approaches, we’re reminded that the most meaningful celebrations aren’t about perfection, but about the memories we create and the traditions we pass along.

Residents Ernie and Evelyn M. share their cherished holiday memories from growing up on Indiana farms, and their reflections offer a beautiful reminder of what truly matters during this special time of year.

The Magic of Simple Moments

For both Ernie and Evelyn, Christmas on the farm meant simple pleasures and close-knit family time. Evelyn fondly recalls the excitement of finding surprise gifts under the tree from her older brother.

“I enjoyed the Christmas tree,” Evelyn says. “My brother would always have surprises for me under the tree when I wasn’t expecting them. That was something I always remember being young.”

These weren’t elaborate gifts or expensive decorations. They were acts of love wrapped in thoughtfulness, illustrating that the best holiday memories often come from the simplest gestures.

Kitchen Traditions Through the Generations

Spending time in the kitchen during the holidays holds a special place in many of our hearts. Evelyn shares how traditions evolved in her family, from her mother’s firm “you kids stay out of my way” approach to creating a more inclusive experience with her three daughters.

“As my children grew up, we sort of had more unity in the kitchen, and we had cookie decorating time,” Evelyn says.

Ernie admits with a chuckle, “My sister and my mother decorated the cookies mostly, but I used to just eat them.”

Whether you’re the decorator or the taste-tester, these kitchen moments become the stories we tell for years to come. At Otterbein Cridersville, our community spaces are designed to foster connections and serve as places where residents can gather, share recipes, and create new traditions together.

The Joy of Gift-Giving — and Gag Gifts!

Wrapping presents took on special meaning in Evelyn’s childhood home. She remembers the chaos: “I liked all the different colors of paper and the ribbons, and we used to have a cat. Of course, the cat had to get in the middle of all of it. So it was a struggle, but we enjoyed it.”

For Ernie, the best part was the element of surprise: “I always liked it because you could wrap gag gifts, and nobody ever knew what they were until Christmas morning.”

These moments of playfulness and anticipation remind us that the holidays are about more than giving — they’re about creating laughter, joy, and memorable experiences with those we love.

Music, Faith, and Community

Growing up in rural areas, both Ernie and Evelyn found community through their churches. Christmas caroling became a cherished tradition, connecting neighbors and passing down to the next generation.

“My girls were always out caroling,” Evelyn shares, proud of how traditions continued through her children.

The reading of the Christmas story also held deep significance. “Mom always read the Bible to us, and she enjoyed the Christmas story,” Evelyn recalls. Ernie adds, “Being a farmer, I guess you may become a little more religious because your livelihood depends on nature and what happens.”

These traditions — gathering with neighbors, sharing music, reflecting on meaningful stories — continue to enrich our community at Otterbein Cridersville through holiday programs, concerts, and worship services.

Creating Your Own Holiday Story

Whether you celebrated with live Christmas trees “before the plastic ones came out,” as Evelyn says, or you’re creating entirely new traditions, the heart of the season remains the same: connection, joy, and togetherness.

“It was like a family affair,” Ernie says of decorating the tree. “It was an event at our house.”

At Otterbein Cridersville, we believe every season is an opportunity to celebrate both cherished memories and new beginnings. Our vibrant community offers countless ways to honor your traditions while embracing fresh experiences, whether that’s joining friends for holiday crafts, attending seasonal concerts, baking cookies, or simply sharing stories over a warm cup of cocoa.

Because the best gift we can give ourselves and each other is the gift of connection, community, and the continuation of traditions that make life meaningful.

Ready to Learn More?

Discover more about life at Otterbein Cridersville and see how our community celebrates the seasons together. Visit us on our beautiful 120-acre campus and experience the warmth of a place where your stories and traditions are valued and celebrated.