Being very, very poor (in Illinois, USA) we awakened to the warmth of a match in our poor but honest bedroom. It was all the warmth we could afford, and then only on Christmas, but epitomized the season.

Down the stairs (we slept in our clothes, as the quilts and blankets were threadbare and held in more cold than heat) to a kitchen redolent with the smell of bread porridge -- if there was any money for frivolities we might have a raisin in it. To church then, to offer thanks.

And then! Home to open our presents! A new stick was always enjoyed, and sometimes, if the weather was warm, we didn't have to burn them until mid-February! A rock. Perhaps an orange that wasn't completely moldy. A coat with one sleeve in nearly perfect shape. A new rubber boot for the four of us children to share.

Hmmm...maybe I'm lying.