I know from experience how desperate a parent can get when attempting to establish a tradition for their child. This sweet and bittersweet examination of tradition vs. trend is a brilliant summation of modern life.

Like a good chestnut, this play is hard on the outside but has a soft centre, especially when roasted. Maybe Lily is trying to bring in a new tradition, or maybe just over tired, as dad does his best to lighten the mood. One thing for sure this little mite has been born into a lovely family. Sweet.

When do family traditions and exhortations from an old song become a burden that must be borne year after year while their meaning is fading away like snow turning to slush? Lily is trying so hard to get those stupid chestnuts to roast and still put up with the pressure of the season as if it was some cult ritual, all the while Joe is doing his best to keep the season bright. But at some point... Lainie Vansant's take on the holiday is a fun and cautionary tale. Ho ho ho!