Traditions

Traditions are the transmission of customs or beliefs from generation to generation, or the fact of being passed on in this way. Traditions were very important to families, but arguably, there has been a lack of traditions in recent years. Traditions are one of the many things that make the holidays bearable or enjoyable.

Traditions can be done any time any day, but they usually center around holidays or significant times. In my family, we used to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade every Thanksgiving morning and eat Chinese/Hibachi every Thanksgiving night. The next day, we would put up our Christmas tree. Putting up the Christmas tree in itself holds a lot of memories from when I was a child. It was a special thing between my mother and I. In the last decade, we haven't done as much as far as our traditions.

My mom was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and this fact has made me reevaluate a few things. One of those things are the traditions that were so important to me as a child. I want to start passing down these traditions to my child and so on. I want him to feel the same happiness and have great memories surrounding these holidays (as well as every day).

Do you want to start traditions in your family? Here are a few ideas for Thanksgiving and Christmas:

Thanksgiving:

• Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (watch/attend)
• A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (watch)
• Special breakfast
• Say a prayer & remember those who have passed
• Write your thanks on a butcher paper tablecloth
• What I'm Thankful For toast (with a drink, not bread)
• Take a long walk together after dinner
• The Wishbone (break it!)
• Football
• Volunteer to help those in need
• Setting the table with family
• Preparing the meal with loved ones
• Putting up the Christmas tree

Christmas:

• Putting up the Christmas tree
• Arts & crafts
• A Christmas Story (watch)
• Open one present on Christmas Eve
• Letters to Santa
• Santa pictures
• Christmas cards
• Board games
• Christmas parties (ugly sweater ones are obviously the best!)
• Wrap presents together
• Christmas Eve traditions, such as opening one present early
• Baking cookies
• Gingerbread houses
• Hang candy canes
• Decorating the outside
• Reading a Christmas-themed book

There can be a tradition for any holiday or occasion. Family is important and it is especially emphasized during the holiday season. Traditions are one part of good times and memories with your family, but it doesn't even have to be with just family. Friends can be considered your family as well. Therefore, do not hesitate to make traditions with your friends as well. Some people even have Friendsgiving where friends attend a special Thanksgiving dinner. 

Whatever your traditions may be. I hope you make great memories this holiday season! Don't let the stress overwhelm you. It's all about good times and good memories.

What are your favorite traditions? Write them in the comments below.