Traditions

So, it's 3 days post Christmas, and I'm home with the crud, so I thought I'd blog again! Lucky for you, right?

At a Women's program at church recently we were talking about Christmas traditions, ones we had as children, ones we have as adults, and some we'd like to start.  I've thought about traditions a lot over the past few weeks.

I think tradition can be good and bad.  I don't think we should always do things the way they've always been done, just because that's the way they've always been done.  I do love the comfort and familiarity in some traditions, though.  Obviously the holiday season brings many traditions - here are a few of my favorites...

I know it's way before Christmas, but I love Black Friday shopping.  My friend Kim and I have gone for the last several years.  I usually don't get all my shopping done that day, but I love to get out in the hustle and bustle of it all.  This is that haul from this year - there were three of us, so it's not as bad as it looks.

 Christmas Eve is always special.  It wasn't until High School that I went to church on Christmas Eve, but it is one of my favorite traditions now.  I love the music, the worship, and especially the candles at the end.

After church we go to the Morel's to party it  up - also a favorite tradition!!  

Miss Alana is always ready to strike a pose.

 Granny Janice (Mom) loving on Zeke. (She LOVES to be called Granny Janice, everyone should do it!)

 Since I've lived in my condo Mom has come over Christmas morning for breakfast and to exchange gifts.  Here she is modeling some huge earrings I got her this year - as a joke.

The rest of Christmas day is going to Mema's and then usually to my Dad's side of the family.  I love spending the day with all of my family in one day!

One tradition I have started in the last couple of years is buying an ornament in memory of Thomas and Clinton for my tree each year. 

A tradition I would like to start is some kind gathering for "my kiddos". Maybe a Christmas movie night, or making something...I don't know.

What are some traditions you love? What are some you'd like to start?

Merry Christmas!

This time of year can be hectic and crazy busy, but it can also be so overwhelmingly special and filled with wonder.  Someone said to me this year that they just decided they weren't going to get stressed out at Christmas. Way to go!  I would love to say I'm there, but not quite.  I try to anticipate the stress.  I guess if I anticipate it and prepare for it, it's a little better. Especially since my stress typically comes from rushing to get things done at the last minute or when what I have planned doesn't go as planned.

Let's think about the wonder, though.  Let's focus on the miracle that we celebrate on December 25. Let's concentrate on the sheer joy of watching children experience Christmas.  Let's love on our families and friends, and all those in our community who need a little extra love. Let's relax and enjoy a good Christmas movie and a cup of hot cocoa.  Just a thought!

One of my favorite things to do during the holiday season is to decorate my home. This year I got an early start because I had a day off of work the week before Thanksgiving.  Since there was only 3 weeks between turkey day and Christmas I took advantage and decked my halls then.  I have really enjoyed the festive feel! But I will also enjoy getting it put away (just being honest, here).

 I joyed the chevron/burlap revolution this year with this wreath - i think I will change the bow and decor for different seasons - we'll see!

 This little pouch holds all my Christmas cards.  I love looking at them as I get them and then going through them again when I take down the decorations - usually on January 1.

 O Christmas Tree!  I really like to pull out my ornaments every year and discover again and again the treasures.  I also like to buy a few ones each year to add to the mix.

My mom bought me this as a housewarming/Christmas gift when I moved into my condo - and I love it as much now as I did then.  (I know the wise men are too close, but that's where they landed this year.)

So, whether your Christmas is as calm and peaceful as can be, or it's filled with crazy chaotic dysfunction - take a breath and find a minute to focus on the good things - and the best thing. After all, that's why we are celebrating in the first place!