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A huge part of Christmas and the entire holiday season are traditions. I was thinking about the things I remember as a kid and have been thinking about what new traditions I can make for my family. Don’t get me wrong we already have a few that we have brought from our childhood. I think that it is important to have one that is new to us if not completely new.

The first and biggest tradition in my family is Elmer the Elf. Elmer has been watching over this family since the 1800′s. It is a tradition that has not died and continues to be passed. Starting on Thanksgiving, the children know that Elmer is watching. He works for the big guy and is there to assure that you are being good and not bad. If he catches you being good he will leave you a small prize the next morning. It adds excitement and certainly keeps the kids on their toes. They want to be good at the hectic holiday time. There have been times in my family that we have had to call Elmer but he always takes care of it. Elmer is a special magical part of our holiday season. Sometimes we know he is watching because he leaves his hat behind.

Another family tradition we have is to spend Christmas Eve. together. It is a time that is cherished. All of the kids get together and play while they anticipate Santa’s arrival. We have a beautiful dinner, chat and enjoy each other. It is like the end to all of the running around and hustle and bustle. We track Santa on the computer and usually get home just in time.

We also, like everyone else I know, leave cookies for Santa and a few carrots for the reindeer. Sometimes we leave egg nog instead of milk because Santa likes it a little more. It is the second to last thing before bed. Of course we read twas the night before Christmas right before bed.

A tradition we used to have but that has died was movie time Sunday. On Sundays from Thanksgiving to Christmas we used to get together and choose two holiday classics to watch. Everyone had their week to share the two that they like the most. While watching the movies together we would do crafts, enjoy each others company, wrap gifts or write our holiday cards. It was so special and I miss it. I think that this year I will start doing it again! I hope that others think it sounds fun!

So there are the traditions we have already. I am looking for a few new ones to start. I would love to hear your ideas and suggestions. I have a few in mind but thought that it would be nice to know what you family does for Christmas to make it special.

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