As our kids are getting older and as we learn what does and doesn’t work for our family it is fun to grow into traditions naturally and see things that we like and try and make them work.

For Thanksgiving we will spend the day together cooking and eating. Last year, my four year old helped me cook quite a bit. I plan to get her in the kitchen again this year and may even attempt to get the twins to help. Even if it just means having them stir something.

Black Friday we choose to opt out of and will go hiking instead.  It may be chilly, but we can bundle up and hit the trails, spend the day together and get some fresh air. It can become a tradition for our family and something everyone will hopefully look forward to yearly.

This year we are starting a new Christmas tradition, the kids get four gifts, something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read. We haven’t figured out all the details, but we will.  We are also making a rule about just blowing through the presents in minutes. We’d like them to really have time to appreciate everything so opening will be staggered. Hey, lets open stockings and then Mommy and Daddy will enjoy coffee while you play with that. Okay, time for one present and breakfast, and another, play with this one, then the next later. Often, I see them open so many and basically see nothing because they are just given gift after gift.

New Years since Molls was one has consisted of getting dressed up and having a dance party at home. Once the kids are in bed my husband and I will watch and movie, have a drink and ring in the new year together. Although, I’m not sure we made it until midnight last year.

I love seeing how all the people I know celebrate with their loved ones and the traditions that the share and hold dear.  What are your holiday traditions?