Our Favorite Holiday Traditions

Ever since I became a mom, the holidays have been infused with new life & energy. What was once thought to be a season filled with excess and drama, it’s now filled with the nostalgia of childhood, the magic of the season and new traditions that helps us create wonderful new memories with our families.

Our Favorite Holiday Traditions

Post-Thanksgiving Decorating. Without fail the kids will ask us the morning after Thanksgiving, “Mom, are we putting up the tree today?”. I’m always happy to bypass the crowds and madness of Black Friday. I’d much rather unearth our boxes of holiday decor and decorate the house for the holidays.
Reading Elf on the Shelf. This tradition made it’s way into our home last year and it took hold with a vengeance. On December 1st, the book comes out and we read it together in hopes that Rosie & Fred the elf will make their appearance through Christmas. I often find my daughter in conversation with her elf with instructions to tell Santa that she is, in fact, a very good girl.
Our Christmas List. Now that the kids are capable of writing, I love having them sit down to write out their Christmas List for Santa. They’ll read it outloud to their elves, hoping that the elves will whisper in Santa (or loved ones) ears.
Santa Claus and Jelly Belly. This is one of my favorite traditions. The kids are dressed up in their matching PJs and head to the Jelly Belly Factory for a morning with Santa & Mrs. Claus. This year they went with their lists in hand to tell Santa the specifics. I love this particular spot the best because Santa will sit and talk with the kids at his leisure. The photographer is friendly and affordable too!
Holiday Ornaments. While many buy coffee mugs or other small trinkets during their travels, I buy Christmas ornaments. I love re-living our travels with the kids especially when a new ornament is put onto the tree.
Holiday PJs. I get in on the fun with the holiday PJs too. If I’m lucky, I can get daddy to participate.