Traditions

Christmas has always been a special time of year for my family. Growing up, we had a few traditions that always seemed to bring us closer together. Here are a few that I would like to share, in the hopes that is will bring you are your loved ones closer together during the magic of the holiday season:

•  The Big Bake Off: Spend a day with your family making your favorite holiday treats. Cookies, candy, appetizers, whatever. Enjoy the time together laughing and making a mess while sharing old memories and making new ones.

•  Santa's Secret Elves: Pick another family, or person who needs extra love this holiday season. Drop off gifts or cookies, cards or candy; just make sure you don't get caught! Running off before the door is answered and trying to drop off your gifts while remaining anonymous is more fun then you'll guess. Whatever you do, it is a sure thing to spread joy to others.

•  The Reason for the Season: My mother had a beautiful porcelain nativity set. It was always a treat to unpack it and place it gently on our piano. It was a big deal and really brought our families focus to the true meaning of Christmas. Try it in your home, explain each of the figurines, read the Christmas Story along with it and bring Christ into Christmas.