The word tradition comes from the Latin word ‘tradiare” which translates as to hand over, to transmit and to pass the torch.
The oxford dictionary defines the word as a belief, a custom or a way of doing something which has existed for a long time among a particular group of people — be it families, organizations or nations.
It has been said that traditions are one of the most important aspects of life, and the experts give us long lists on the hows and whys this is true. The bottom line is they give us a sense of stability and security.
Traditions also connect us to our roots and to each other in our ever-changing world. This is especially important for senior citizens and young children who are more vulnerable to the changes in our lives.
Traditions also have the potential to create happy memories which in turn creates joy for every person involved.
It is my humble opinion that one of the most important attributes of traditions is they bring family and friends together to share special commonalities, such as a wedding or a Fourth of July picnic.
There are no specific rules regarding traditions. Some of them may be as simple as always going to the grandparent’s home for Thanksgiving, or decorating the Christmas tree on the same day every year.
Other traditions may be as complex as hosting a five-course meal every New Year’s Eve, or cleaning the house from one end to the other every January.
The beautiful thing about our traditions is they are not concrete. They can be modified, discarded or added to meet the needs and the value systems of the people involved.
What are some of your favorite traditions? Email and tell us about them.
For this December issue I wish to continue the tradition began in December of 2019 when we celebrated the first anniversary of “Aging Successfully” published in the Sequim Gazette.
Can you believe the first ever “Aging Successfully” column was published in December of 2018? Where did the time go?
A tasty treat
Here is a favorite childhood recipe. It is simple to make, and is egg free. It can easily be modified to be gluten-free and dairy free. Even the sugar can be substituted for healthier sweeteners. I sometimes use date sugar or dehydrated maple syrup. I occasionally add one teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
Whether you make the recipe as it is or modify it, this festive dessert can be enjoyed throughout the year.
• Berry Buckle
Ingredients:
½ cup sugar
1 cup flour
¼ teas. salt
2 teas. baking powder
½ cup milk
½ teas. vanilla
1 Tbs. butter, melted or cooking oil
• Step 1
Mix all ingredients together to make a smooth batter. Then pour batter into an oiled baking dish.
• Step 2
1 heaping cup (or more) of berries
½ cup sugar
¾ cup boiling water
Sprinkle berries over the top of the batter. Then sprinkle the half-cup of sugar over the berries. Finally pour the ¾ cup of boiling water over the mixture.
Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 30 minutes, or until done.
Calling all winners
Remember our newest contest?
Any one who emails us and shares what his or her favorite column was — and why — will have their name placed in a drawing.
We will draw three names. Winners will receive two Martin’s Muses books of their choice. In addition, everyone who enters will have their favorite column mentioned in my January 2023 column. The deadline is Dec. 31.
Crystal Linn is a multi-published author and an award-winning poet. When not writing, or teaching workshops, she enjoys reading a good mystery, hiking, and sailing with friends and family. See crystallinn.com.
