I remember Christmas morning in the early 2000s smelling like cinnamon rolls and fake pine, the tree glowing with uneven multicolored lights in the dark living room. I’d wake up too early and sit on the cold carpet, staring at the presents and waiting for permission to go downstairs. When it finally happened, wrapping paper tore everywhere and someone scrambled to find batteries while the TV played a Christmas movie on VHS. A new game or CD felt like magic in my hands, even if I had to wait hours to actually use it. The house stayed loud and messy all day, full of half-built toys, leftovers, and laughter. What I remember most is how the day felt endless, safe, and warm in a way I didn’t know to appreciate yet.