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Start A New Christmas Tradition This Year

 

Thinking about Christmas usually means enjoying fond memories of family traditions. This year try to start new traditions that everyone can look forward to year after year. Consider thinking outside the box. Here are some unique and sentimental traditions that you and your family could try. 

1. Buy and hand a new Christmas ornament every year 

Every year purchase a new ornament for your children to hang on the beautiful Christmas tree. Because military families often relocate to new places, this is a unique way of getting a new ornament each year to represent the places you’ve lived! When your children are grown up and move out on their own, pass these special keepsakes down to them to enjoy with their own family during the holiday. 

2. Give Back! 

Consider volunteering time, money or other resources this holiday season. It not only helps those in need, but makes you feel good in the process. It’s also a great way to bond with your family. Some places you can find volunteer opportunities include your local animal shelter, library, humane society, soup kitchen, homeless shelter or food bank. Visit www.volunteermatch.org to find a project dear to your heart. 

3. “Plant” Candy Cane Seeds 

Bring your kids outside for a fun activity that they will be sure to remember. Bring a bag of unwrapped white and red candy canes outside and have your children “plant” candy cane tree “seeds.” After they go to sleep that night, go back to the seeds and sick some candy canes into the dirt. In the morning they will be surprised when they see that their seeds grew into delicious candy canes overnight! 

4. Hide a Gift 

On Christmas Eve, hide a small gift among the branches of your Christmas tree. It can be something simple, like a picture frame, as long as it is easy to discreetly place in the tree. On Christmas morning, have everyone take turns finding their present. Even if you don’t find your own, everyone can trade once everyone has had their turn. This creates a simple and sweet tradition for kids to look forwards to the night before Christmas. 

5. Set Up A Family Photoshoot 

Gather some Christmas props and set up an impromptu family photoshoot. Set your camera on a timer or take silly selfies wearing your most ridiculous holiday gear. This will get the whole family laughing and in the holiday spirit. 

6. Cookie Exchange 

Ask your friends and family if they would like to do a holiday cookie exchange. If you live on base, ask your neighbors. It’s a great way to share your family’s delicious recipes and get in the holiday spirit with your community. 

7. Open PJs on Christmas Eve 

If you are dying to open a gift before Christmas day, get a set of matching flannel pajamas for the entire family to open on Christmas Eve. Have everyone wear them on Christmas Day while opening all their other presents. It makes for a great photo opportunity as well. 

8. Make Santa Pancakes 

Make a Christmas morning breakfast sure to impress the whole family. Get out your pancake batter and create a fluffy canvas for everyone to decorate with their own Santa face. Have whipped cream, chocolate chips and strawberries available for decorating. 
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