Family Traditions

Wow!  The semester is FINALLY over, and I feel like I will be able to breathe for a while.  I've been absent for weeks--delving into the text books to finish the semester.  Glad it's over....at least for a few weeks.

So--Thanksgiving is gone...although I still have pictures to share of Thanksgiving Day with Brett's family. One of their family traditions is making homemade hot tamales. They normally do not make them on Thanksgiving, but because Brett's brother was in from out of state, it was the best opportunity for everyone in the family to participate. It's definitely a lot of work, but it's worth it!

I've always thought about family traditions--and have always thought about the ones I would want to have when I had a family.  Well, now that time is here, and so far I don't know how well I'm doing :)

I love families that have traditions that span the years because it gives everyone in the family something to look forward to.  I remember as a little girl going to look at Christmas lights every Christmas eve night, and coming home to the presents that some how made it under the tree when we were gone!  We were always allowed to open ONE gift on Christmas Eve as well.  Those were fun memories, but I would like to create many more.

My friend, Dana, gets a small "mini" gift every day of December for the kids (and even the adults too--I think). I thought about narrowing that idea down to maybe. . .the 12 days of Christmas (instead of 25). . . and getting little stocking gifts each day.

Of course, I want to share the Christmas story, the real Reason for Christmas celebration, as a family.  I have many friends that also celebrate Christmas morning with a birthday cake to Jesus in celebration of His birthday.

I don't think it is every too late to develop traditions and make memories.  I just may need some ideas :)

So . . . .what kind of family traditions have you had in your family that bring great memories?  Please share!