Kicking off the season

My sister in law was singing the song "tradition" from Fidler on the Roof the other day, so perhaps she is the culprit guilty of inspiring this post.  With today being the first day of December, it's time to kick off some of our families Christmas traditions. There are a few things that we do each year.  Without them, it just wouldn't seem like Christmas me.

first

One thing we did in my family for as long as I can remember is to eat dinner by candlelight every night for the entire month of December. As a child, I looked forward to this as it gave my siblings and I a chance to play with FIRE. We'd dip our fingers in the wax... try to burn our napkins, or strands of hair, meanwhile my Dad threatening to take the candles away if we didn't STOP messing with them. As a parent, I have loved this tradition because it brings some excitement to the table each evening, candle light is VERY calming, and I've noticed we all linger around the table longer than normal through out this month. Such a simple thing that really does bring us together for that time. I LOVE it and Abby is really looking forward to getting "her" candle tomorrow.

Second

My Dad's birthday was on Christmas Day, and growing up there were only two things that he EVER asked for as gifts.  For his Birthday) He wanted 1 hour of uninterrupted sleep. Being a single parent, sleep must have been a rare thing for him.  For Christmas) A Bacon and Tomato Sandwich for breakfast. Yes that's right. For breakfast. Looking back I'm not sure if we ever did give him that precious hour of sleep he wanted, but we've sure enjoyed those sandwiches.

Tomato, bacon, salt, pepper, mayo and toasted bread. sooo good! Come to think of it - I don't know why we reserve this for Christmas morning. A sandwich this good should be enjoyed all through the year. But Tradition is Tradition I suppose!

Driving around looking at Christmas lights

Who doesn't do this? We've already been out a few times to enjoy other peoples lights, but that week before Christmas is the best time to go. It's nice to be stuck in a van with the clan and know that we are all enjoying it. No arguing, no "are we there yet?" It's probably the only time I don't come close to shouting, "That's it -Everybody out!"    I'm not in any rush to get anywhere, which is a Christmas miracle in itself- John would say.   The kids just stare out the window with bulging eyes and thoughtful moods, the reflection of lights twinkling on their cute little faces.  Sam is usually the one who breaks the silence every time we pass a new home with lights, as he excitedly shrieks, "I see Christmas!"  Abby, always the teacher, is willing to actually converse with him on these occasions, and she explains why there is a nativity.  Then she gets all spiritual and asks us to tell her the story of when Jesus was born.  It's true- our family metamorphasizes into a calm, tranquil,  group on nights like that.   It really is bliss!

Other Christmas traditions I love are: Those Christmas firecracker things with the cheap crown and jokes inside, gift exchanges, Rudolph the Red nosed Reindeer, Delivering sugar cookies, and an advent calendar. This year I learned of a great idea for an advent calendar that I'd love to incorporate. Check out Nikki's blog for details.

Whatever your traditions are - the time is almost here to start them.   I hope you'll share some of your favorites with us.  Our family is young, and we're always looking for ideas.