Our family has a few Christmastime traditions. Some are new and some are remnants of our own childhoods. Some are purposeful and some happened quite by accident.
The Christmas Tree
Thanks to Adam’s mom our tree is decorated in ornaments dating back 31 years to the beginning of Adam’s existence. One ornament for every year of Adam’s life. My mother-in-law has faithfully carried on the tradition and now our children look forward to receiving their own ornaments from Grammy each year.
Household Decorations
We have two special items that are a must-have for the kids. The first is our Playmobil Nativity Set. When Megan was two years old I looked for a nativity set that would be child-friendly. When I was growing up, a big part of Christmas was setting up my mom’s nativity scene. I wanted a set that Megan could interact with. This continues to be a favorite with both kids.
The second item is an advent calendar of sorts. It falls into the not-so-serious collection of Christmas decorations. Quite simply it is Santa coming down the chimney. My mother-in-law sent this as a gift a couple years ago. Ironically even Paul the self described Santa Hater, loves this countdown to Christmas.
Sleeping Under the Christmas Tree
When I was in first and second grade I attended a missionary boarding school. My hostel had a special way of celebrating Christmas before all the kids went home to be with their families for the school holiday. For one night each year the girls and boys took turns sleeping “under” the Christmas tree. The tradition continues with Megan and Paul. There is something magical about falling asleep next to the twinkling lights. They look forward to it every year. Since our tree is in the dining room, sleeping under the Christmas tree actually translates into sleeping under the dining room table. All the more fun in their eyes.
Opening One Gift On Christmas Eve
We each get to open one gift on Christmas Eve. This was my tradition while growing up and I think it might have been Adam’s too. After the Christmas Eve service at church we look forward to going home and opening just one gift. Hopefully it is something a little more exciting than the pair of socks from Grandma.
