I have always loved this time of year, so so much. I especially love the traditions — old ones to continue and new ones to create. This year, my husband and I are feeling and celebrating the holidays times a million this year. We’re doing what we can to make the end of a tricky year as special as possible this year. Here are some of my favorite Christmas traditions:

Christmas Tree

There are a thousand different traditions all “wrapped up” in and around our yearly Christmas tree. I love the whole adventure of traveling to the tree farm together, riding the tractor or wagon, wandering the field in search of the perfect Douglas Fir. I then also love stringing up the lights and decorating with the family while holiday music plays. We have a treasure trove of cherished ornaments, too. I spend a lot of time staring at our tree and all those memories on hooks. I used to get a Christmas ornament from my Godmother each year and I love seeing the years on them. And then there are ornaments we’ve collected as as family from our vacations and adventures.

Gingerbread Houses

Each year, we always have a gingerbread house get-together, too. There is a lot of sugar, a good amount of mess, a decent amount of hot cocoa and sooooo many laughs and memories.

Our Elf, Chippy

We have a mischievous elf named Chippy that visits us each year. This year, more than ever, he’s got more creative spots and a lot of surprises and activities for the kiddos, too. Seeing their delight and joy in finding him and talking about him brings me so much joy.

Christmas Movies

We have holiday movies on repeat (“Home Alone” is Addie’s favorite and Zach loves “Rudolph” for the abominable snowman scenes this year), holiday music playing around the clock and we are already baking our share of Christmas cookies.

The holidays are all about joy, mystery, love, memories and so very many beautiful Christmas traditions.