With cookie baking, present shopping, wrapping and party
planning, it’s easy to get lost amid the holiday frenzy. If stressed, the feeling
of anxiety can stay with you long after you’ve put the tree away. If you’re
looking for a more loving and caring approach to the season, the following are
family traditions to help you create your own special holiday memories.
Write a Letter to
Santa
You may celebrate
birthdays with presents and a special meal. But if you’re looking to
incorporate more traditions into your family at the holidays, there are number
of ways to deliver. Santa may be attainable via email, but spend time together
crafting an actual letter to the special man in the red suit. Go to the craft
store and pick themed stationary to write the actual letter. You can also
decorate the piece of paper and envelope with stickers and drawings. Help your
child explain their good behavior and convey their wish list. When done, seal
up the document and post in the mail together. Remember, this is the busiest
time of year for Santa, so you want to get your letter done early in the
season.
Give Back
You can make other people’s Christmas merrier by giving back
this holiday season. The US Coachways and 106.7 Lite FM are joining forces on
December 19th to wrap gifts for children. You can bring joy to a
child’s life by supporting the event for children at the Bristol Myers Squibb
Children’s Hospital at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital by helping to
deliver over 2,000 gifts on Christmas morning. You can make
this a memorable tradition by inviting friends, family and co-workers.
Scheduling a US
Coachways or holiday event is fast and easy when you secure safe transportation
for everyone. A mini bus gets everyone there safely and leaves the driving in
the hands of the professionals. This allows you to focus on building special
memories for children hospitalized during the holidays.
Start a Secret Santa
for Others
If your gift list is bulging at the seams, ask your family
members if they would like to start
a new tradition. Instead of picking names to see who is purchasing for
whom, buy a gift for a charity. Do some research ahead of time to find an
organization that is legitimate and holds special meaning. Ask the organizer
for suggestions on what items may be needed most such as food, clothing,
toiletries and pet essentials.
Count Down the Days
The days leading up to Christmas can be exciting, especially
for children. To help you count down the days, pick a calendar that your child
can cross off the numbers. You may also craft your own holiday calendar or
bulletin board using magnets. Your local retailer may also have a countdown
calendar where your child can open the doors to each day and receive a special
treat for their efforts.
Pick a Holiday Tree
Another great tradition to start as a family is to pick
a perfect holiday tree together. If you favor the real variety, bundle up
and head to a tree farm. The facility may even offer more than just a tree
selection. You may also enjoy sleigh rides, hot chocolate and other family
activities. If you prefer the fake variety of tree, head to your retail store
and pick out a tree and decorations. Have each family member choose a special
ornament each year to adorn the tree.
Drive Around to See
the Holiday Lights
When you begin to notice your neighborhood glow brilliantly
this holiday season, pack the family in the car for a ride. Choose a route
where you can enjoy house after house of lighted displays. When you’re done
with your own community, travel to other neighborhoods to see their offerings.
Pack hot cider or chocolate in your child’s sippy cups for a festive flair.
Bake Holiday Cookies
Break out your favorite family cookie recipes and bake
treats with your children. Although you don’t want your kids putting trays into
the oven, they can mix, measure and decorate the finished products. You can
even plan
a cookie baking party around your baking. Invite friends and family over
and ask them to bring their favorite cookie dough. If you’re short on time, the
stores have ready-made cookie dough that you can roll, bake, frost and
decorate.
Whatever traditions you decide upon, remember that it’s all
about family. When you set your mind to having a stress-free and fun holiday,
your children are sure to cherish the memories you’ve made together more than
the presents you’ve wrapped and placed under the tree.
