As State Representative Victor Anderson (District 10) prepares to leave for a Special Session this week at the Georgia State Capitol to redraw political boundary lines, he and his wife, Kim, talked about Christmas, family, traditions, and what has kept their marriage strong for 35 years.
“We have already put up our Christmas tree,” Kim chuckled. “I knew with Victor being gone all next week, this weekend was the best time.”
Holiday traditions
As a political wife, mother, grandmother, and business owner, Kim handles her many roles well. For the Andersons, it is a team effort, two daughters, a new son-in-law, and a grandson. Their home is the gathering place for family, and the hustle and bustle of family keeps Victor and Kim on the go.
“Our traditions are evolving as the girls have grown up. Our daughter got married this year. We have new dynamics. Each year we like to either take a trip such as camping or go to a special event,” Victor added. “This December we are attending the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.”
With the loss of Kim’s father, this year has been tough. “Mortality makes us reevaluate things,” Kim reflected. The holidays will be different for her family without her dad, but one lesson Kim holds dear is “how precious time is and how important it is to hold on to those around you because you never know when they will be gone.”
Childhood memories
Victor reflected on life as a boy. His most memorable Christmas was the year he and his brother received motorcycles. “They were used. My Uncle had a dealership but because our Dad had one, we thought it was very special. We spent a great deal of time riding together.”
Being one of five children, Kim remembers Christmas Day fondly. “My brothers always received gifts that I wanted to play with – BB guns, motorbikes – I got girl stuff but I liked their gifts more! We would play all day long!”
Christmas traditions in their household include a Christmas List of wishes from everyone. “We open one gift the night before and, of course, have an early morning wake-up to see what is under the tree,” Kim explained. But, the Andersons stress how vital it is to keep Jesus in the center of the celebration since He is the reason for Christmas.
Marriage success
The Andersons started dating in high school and while they have been through many ups and downs, the secret to their success is faith and love.
“I see these contemporary trends where the weddings are so elaborate. I’m concerned if a young couple can live up to the expectations they’ve placed on themselves,” Victor commented. “Marriage is like a garden. If you want beautiful flowers, you’ve got to work on it every day. You’ve got to weed and water it. It takes constant care.”
Holiday wish
When asked what they wished for Now Habersham readers, “Good abundant blessings in the things that matter.”
Victor added, “I pray for each person to have discernment to reevaluate what is most important in his or her life.”
