Love, Laughter, and EVERYTHING in Between: Day 24-Holiday Traditions

Traditions are a big part of the holidays and Christmas Eve is no exception. Every family has their own ideas that make this a special holiday and one thing is for sure, children are excited and full of anticipation.

I am not a fan of cold but I have to admit that nothing could be more perfect than a light dusting of snow falling on Christmas Eve to bring on the holiday spirit. In Chicago, it doesn't look like we're going to have a white Christmas but there are many things you can do to set the holiday mood.

Setting the Tone!
Music, candles, laughs, and love! Enhance a cozy atmosphere with Christmas music and light some candles to help set the tone for a lovely and festive Christmas.  If you're lucky (or lack thereof) to have a scrooge in your family, perhaps this will help shower in some good cheer. What are some of the ways you set the tone for Christmas?

Prepare a Meal!
I'm not sure what a "traditional" Christmas Eve meal encompasses but I try and make it fun for the children. In the past, we've made pizza and pot pies along with some other kid friendly meals that have proven to also be tasty. Because of the big meal planned for the holiday, it's understandable that some families like to keep the meal light and serve soup and crackers. When all else fails, have the good ole sausage and cheese on hand for tasty snacks and appetizers.

Children and Traditions!
Besides a visit from Santa, stockings are hung by the fireplace or on the tree filled with goodies. Recently, a friend reminded me that our stockings were filled with pecans, tangerines, peppermints and other small items.  Today, we can agree that it is much different! 

In our family we have an array of "traditions" that have been passed on from generation to generation.  From sipping hot chocolate, watching movies, playing games and reading Christmas stories; to baking cookies and opening that one gift at midnight - Christmas as a child was the best time of the year.  As a parent, I have tried to do some of the same items with my children in the hopes that they'll pass them right on down to theirs. One of my favorite things has been opening a gift at midnight even though it's always pajamas! Although my children are teenagers and adults, I still get a kick out of getting up in the middle of the night and putting out those last few items. There is nothing like the joy of watching their faces on Christmas morning.

What are some things you do with your family?  How do you spend your Christmas Eve?


~Until Next Time
SimplySHAY

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Traditions are a big part of the holidays and Christmas Eve is no exception. Every family has their own ideas that make this a special holiday and one thing is for sure, children are excited and full of anticipation.

I am not a fan of cold but I have to admit that nothing could be more perfect than a light dusting of snow falling on Christmas Eve to bring on the holiday spirit. In Chicago, it doesn't look like we're going to have a white Christmas but there are many things you can do to set the holiday mood.

Setting the Tone!
Music, candles, laughs, and love! Enhance a cozy atmosphere with Christmas music and light some candles to help set the tone for a lovely and festive Christmas.  If you're lucky (or lack thereof) to have a scrooge in your family, perhaps this will help shower in some good cheer. What are some of the ways you set the tone for Christmas?

Prepare a Meal!
I'm not sure what a "traditional" Christmas Eve meal encompasses but I try and make it fun for the children. In the past, we've made pizza and pot pies along with some other kid friendly meals that have proven to also be tasty. Because of the big meal planned for the holiday, it's understandable that some families like to keep the meal light and serve soup and crackers. When all else fails, have the good ole sausage and cheese on hand for tasty snacks and appetizers.

Children and Traditions!
Besides a visit from Santa, stockings are hung by the fireplace or on the tree filled with goodies. Recently, a friend reminded me that our stockings were filled with pecans, tangerines, peppermints and other small items.  Today, we can agree that it is much different! 

In our family we have an array of "traditions" that have been passed on from generation to generation.  From sipping hot chocolate, watching movies, playing games and reading Christmas stories; to baking cookies and opening that one gift at midnight - Christmas as a child was the best time of the year.  As a parent, I have tried to do some of the same items with my children in the hopes that they'll pass them right on down to theirs. One of my favorite things has been opening a gift at midnight even though it's always pajamas! Although my children are teenagers and adults, I still get a kick out of getting up in the middle of the night and putting out those last few items. There is nothing like the joy of watching their faces on Christmas morning.

What are some things you do with your family?  How do you spend your Christmas Eve?


~Until Next Time
SimplySHAY

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.