Making Memories With Holiday Traditions

Hey you guys.
Today I want to get into the importance of holiday traditions. As a mom, I'm always looking for cool ways to make memories with my little one. I love hearing the excitement in his voice, as he anticipates activities throughout the holiday season. Below, I've listed some fun ways you can start making Christmas traditions of your own...

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Deck The Halls
Decorating not only gets you into the holiday spirit, it's also a great way to implement family traditions. Back when I used to celebrate Thanksgiving, my sisters and I would always go to the movies after dinner. The following day we'd start decorating for Christmas, since school was out. We'd put up the tree, and switch the living room decor to match our holiday color scheme. Sometimes, we would make paper snowflakes and paste them in the windows.   I always looked forward to this as a kid. ​So, instead of randomly putting up the tree each year. Reserve a special date for everyone to get excited about.

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In The Kitchen
As a true yardie, there are two Caribbean treats I'm guaranteed each year, an Easter Bun, and a Christmas Rum Cake. ​I can still remember my grandmother pulling out a large jar of rum soaked fruits each holiday season in preparation for the cake. Are there any special Christmas treats in your culture? Why not try your hand at making one? Don't worry, epic fails make the best stories. But, if baking really isn't your thing, there are plenty of options when it comes to pre-made cookie dough. Gather the family, and decorate them for a fun holiday activity.

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Out And About
Traditions don't have to take place at home. Ice skating at Riverbank, shopping followed by hot chocolate in the city, or driving through a Christmas village, are all awesome activities for making memories during the holidays. I recently took my little one to Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo. In addition to all the beautiful lights, and performances, we made s'mores, and rode the holiday train. Weekend getaways at the cabin are another fun option. But, if you simply despise the cold, Christmas on the beach also works well. ​You can be that family that vacations in the tropics for the holidays. 

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Let The Games Begin
Not only is it important to include the little ones in the activities, you should empower them to create traditions also. My little guy is really into Nintendo's Super Mario. So, when LEGO did a collaboration with the franchise, we were all over it. Now, we rebuild each set around Christmas, creating a new world each day, We end on Christmas Eve, when he's allowed to open the latest addition. We then, run through the entire course. So, let your little one take center stage and come up with a cool tradition based on their interests.

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​Movie Marathon
Lastly, schedule a movie marathon. Spend the day watching all your favorite holiday movies. If your schedule doesn't allow for a full on marathon, plan a few movie nights instead. With all the streaming services available, you're sure to find something to watch (Disney+ has all the good stuff).  Add some gourmet popcorn and theater snacks to create the perfect viewing experience.

I hope this ​inspires you to create some awesome traditions, you and your family will enjoy for years to come!

Until next time,
Mimi☺️