Traditions

For a couple of weeks I have been meaning to sit down and write this post.  It all started when my cousin posted some of her traditions that her and husband have started.

Traditions are one of my favorite things in the world.  No matter what holiday or occasion, I LOVE traditions.  Christmas is one time of year that it really hits home for me.  Growing up we had so many wonderful traditions (and still do), I wanted to continue those and add to them for Brian and I.  I want to share a few of them with you.

The Tree. Growing up we started out by having a live tree.  We would all go to a farm, pick it out, then Dad would cut it down.  I remember riding in the back of the truck (this was before it was “illegal” for kids to do that) with the tree on the way home.  DeAnne and I would get to ride in back with it.  At some point we switch to a fake tree, but when Brian and I bought the house 3 Christmases ago, I decided I wanted to go back to a live tree for us.  Now, we don’t go out to a farm (if anyone knows of one in the area let me know because I would love to start doing this!) to pick out our tree, but we do pick it out together the weekend of Thanksgiving. 

Ornaments.  Every year since the day we were born, Mom has given DeAnne and I an ornament.  In addition to her giving us one, up until we graduated high school we would swap with cousins.  Mom decided to do this so when we got older and married, we would have a tree full of ornaments that had special meanings to us.  I love looking at the tree full of odd and ends of ornaments, each either what we were into that year or from a trip we took.  Brian, Daniel, and the girls each get one from Mom as well now.  Our tree is getting very full with all of ours!  DeAnne had to buy a bigger tree (they do fake ones) to hold all of theirs.  To carry on the tradition of swapping (yes I know I don’t have kids yet) I get the girls an ornament each year as well. 

Pajamas. Growing up DeAnne and I were allowed to open one gift on Christmas Eve.  Mom always got to pick it out.  It would be from her and Dad consisting of new pajamas.  We would wear them Christmas Eve so we would look all fresh and new for pictures Christmas morning.  While we were young we normally had matching ones.  DeAnne has carried this tradition over to her girls, while I have started buying Brian and I new Christmas pjs.  (Don’t let Brian know I told you this.:) )  Another part of this traditions growing up was DeAnne and I would always sleep together on Christmas Eve.  It added the excitement to the night!

Holiday Happy.  For the past couple of years, before the Christmas party season Brian has bought me a new outfit for all the parties.  I love how he picks up on an outfit or piece of clothing that I like but will not buy for myself. 

Looking at Christmas Lights.  This time of year is one of my favorite times of year.  I love grabbing a cup of hot chocolate and driving around looking at Christmas lights.  I hope this year more people decorate their houses; I was a little sad when we drove around town and it seemed like not many people were decorating. 

Baking Goodies.  Lots and lots of baking! 

Christmas Cards.  I’m that person who is thinking about Christmas cards in July.  I order them either before Thanksgiving or right after Thanksgiving.  I love addressing cards!  I look forward to that night(s) where I sit down, watch TV, have a glass of wine, and address my cards. 

I hope you enjoyed learning a few of our traditions. I would love to hear about some of yours!!