In this fast-paced world, our traditions ground us, inspire us. Traditions are meant to be observed and nurtured-but they should also be allowed to evolve.

I have enjoyed 59 Christmases . Evolution has been very slow. As a boy, I would wake up at 6 , open presents, then spend the day playing with new toys. Today’s Legos were yesterday’s Tinkertoys. Through the 50’s & 60’s these toys evolved from a die cast ‘56 Lincoln Continental Mark II, my Wanted : Dead or Alive Mares Leg, an Inter Continental Ballistic Missile Launcher  and on through various sizes of bicycles. In 1964 it was tickets to the NFL Championship game (2 years before the first Super Bowl). Clothes, of course, were always received, but never appreciated.

Fast forward to 2010. This year’s toy is my wireless headset. I can now enjoy sounds from my laptop, ipod, even the TV, up to 300’ away. Tickets? MSU vs. Penn State , Big 10 basketball. Clothes? 2 cool cardigan vests and a warm, cardigan “old man” sweater.

The gifts have evolved, but best of all, Christmas still starts at 6 a.m. in my house !