Happy Holidays!

There are many ways to celebrate the holiday season. I'm fascinated with how the different parts of the US celebrations, family traditions, and cultural traditions vary.

I work for a predominantly French company and I discovered that the Christmas tree and the Advent calendar are central to their traditional celebrations. From December 1-25 the children will find a treat in the box or pocket of the advent calendar to enjoy. We never had one of those in our family, but it sounds like a lot of fun for the kids. And the families all get together to celebrate over a luscious meal.

Many, if not most, family celebrations seem to include a meal. Our family is no different. We take turns going to one house or the other, depending on if mom feels up to all of us hanging out at her place. She no longer puts up a tree in her tiny house, instead she puts bows on a Christmas cactus and sets it on a stand, surrounding the bottom with gifts. The little ones get toys and clothing, while us big kids usually get Chex Mix (YUM) or Peanut Brittle (AWESOME) and a little cash, which always fits.

 Off and on we have made gifts over the years, quilts, afghans, scarves, or lately we purchase gift cards to our family member's favorite place to shop. My youngest grandson loves them, he feels like he has a credit card and can buy anything he wants. Very cool. My niece and sis love to make treats like tarts, truffles, decorated sugar cookies and the like. We usually make Sand Hill Plum jelly to share with the family. (It's on my list of things to do!) I love the gifts that are hand made, they are the most special ones because the person gave of their time - and that is something in short supply around here.

Over the years our traditional dinner of turkey or ham has changed depending on the mood of the host. The food is always good, whether it's BBQ, a big pot of veggie soup, or lasagne, and we all bring things to contribute. It's not the menu that really matters, it's the sharing of the bounty and thanking the maker for our family, good health, and abundance. (We are truly blessed!)

We also exchange Christmas cards. I put in the "White Christmas" DVD and usually finish up when it's over. Some of my cousins are really good about the "Christmas Letter" and one of my friends always writes a "Christmas Poem." Both are great ways to catch up on what is going on with the kids and grandkids. 

I'm really curious to learn about other family traditions. What does your family celebration usually consist of? Is there something you especially like about the way your family celebrates? Please share!