So, I've been trying to figure out new ways for us to celebrate the Christmas season. We've been trying to teach Tanner that Christmas isn't just about the presents....but the presence. It's about Jesus. It's a time to slow down, spend time together as a family, and give back to others. I came across an Advent calendar and thought we'd add this to our traditions. I go into this knowing that it won't be easy....but know that it will bring togetherness and memories that will last a lifetime.
Here is some of the things I've got planned for us this year. Some we've been doing over the years and some are new.
1. decorate the tree together (we did this Monday)
2. watch Christmas show together (we did this yesterday)
3. make cookies (Tanner's choice)
4. go out for dessert
5. go out to a movie
6. make cookies and deliver to a friend
7. learn about St. Nicholas
8. go look at Christmas lights
9. game night
10. camp out in living room together
11. shop for Angel Tree gift together
12. decorate a gingerbread house. I've made ours in the past but you can get them at Michael's.
13. Read the Christmas story. Matthew 1:18-25; Matthew 2:1-12; Luke 1:26-38; Luke 2:1-20.
What family traditions do you have?
This is our first christmas that Abbey sort of understands what is going on... We have taught her that christmas is Jesus's birthday and that we celebrate with him and give and get presents...
ReplyDeleteJosh and I have done the ornament thing since we have been together... Sadely our keepsake ornaments were lost in the move so this year we will have to start over... I was crushed...
We decorate the tree together and had Abbey help us with the decorations outside... And every night we sing happy birthday to Jesus... She loves it! We have also started the tradition of getting a nutcracker every year... (target has them for $12 and they are all different types) Abbey has a blast picking one out... And this year Abbey will get to help mimi make cookies (annual tradition) and she will help ma-d make bread... Something she likes to do...
One other tradition that we have is the tradition that we started last year... Typically we spend christmas eve with my Dad, Christmas morning with my mom, and the afternoon with Josh's parents... So last year we invited mom to stay the night... Then in the morning we made caramel apple pancakes... (my new specialty) and everyone loved it... So we decided new tradition and are planning it for this year!!!
We are doing the same thing- I couldn't stand to put candy and junk in the advent- so we did 25 days of family fun! It is fun and tiring all in one! :)
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