Christmas Traditions

This week's blog cruise asks: How does your family celebrate the holidays? 

There is something about family traditions that are so special. The things we look forward to each year can really make or break the holiday season. I know there are several activities we do during the Christmas season that really make it complete.

The first thing I do once November hits is find a radio station playing Christmas music. I know, many think this is too early, but, for me, the season passes by way too quickly without starting early. It gets us all in the mood as we enjoy singing the old carols driving down the road.

I also like to have all my Christmas shopping done by Thanksgiving. This is important because it’s a big stress reliever. Additionally, since we decorate the Friday after Thanksgiving, it allows me to put their presents under the tree right away. Decorating includes our 9ft prelit tree (saved us from all the tree light stringing arguments of days past), the stockings I made for each of us, our nativity in its place of honor, the old tyme choir that sings on the mantle and lighted pine strung up the banister. Decorating brings warmth into our home and opens it up to friends and family coming to visit.

Throughout December, we burn scented candles, light the fireplace, and play Christmas music. It’s such a festive time.

December also starts the baking season. We make peanut clusters, muddy buddies, snowball cookies, and decorate sugar cookies. This has to be strategically planned so we can leave a few out for Santa. I always bake a huge batch of pumpkin bread to share with friends.

The Christmas Cantata at church is an event we always look forward to. Both my hubby’s mother and aunt sing in the choir. Focusing on the reason for the season is the most important aspect of celebrating.
Finally, as the holiday approaches, we have our get-togethers.

My husband’s father’s family plans a get-together where we share gifts and food and fellowship. Each year we wonder why it takes a holiday to bring us together. Maybe this year, we’ll break that tradition and spend time together after the holidays.

Scott’s parents are always with us on Christmas morning. They come to open gifts and share the monkey bread I made the night before for breakfast. We start the morning gathering together for a cup of juice and prayer before descending the stairs to see what Santa has brought and open gifts.

This season is truly magical! I can’t imagine the holidays without begin surrounded by friends and family basking in the gift of our Lord Jesus Christ.