As the holidays draw nearer with every passing day, my thoughts go back to when I was young. Some of my most treasured memories are celebrating with family. One tradition my family has continued since I was little is getting together with my Dad's side of the family at my Grandparents home on Christmas Eve to trade gifts and visit.
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| One of my favorite pictures of our two oldest kids on Christmas Eve from a few years ago. |
Since we are keeping this holiday tradition alive for our children in such a large family, we have to be creative with gift giving. Buying presents for everyone is not something we can do on a budget. That means we have all agreed to trade names for the younger generations, and everyone buys for as many kiddos as they are bringing. There are still plenty of gifts and toys under the tree, and we all get to enjoy those eyes light up when a little one unwraps their toys. I just love how keeping this tradition alive has kept our family close during the holidays and throughout the year. This year I am looking forward to our little guy's first Christmas with the entire family!
With toys to buy for both our traditional Christmas Eve holiday celebration, and for my own kiddos, I will be stopping by the Toyland Event held at my local Walmart on December 6th. I can't wait to share with you all the details after the event, and one of the cool toys I picked up for the present exchange at my family's Christmas Eve party. Make sure to check the list of participating stores and event dates to stop by and join in the fun at the Walmart Toyland Event in your area.
What is a Holiday Tradition your family observes to keep everyone close? I would just love to hear about it! ~ Amanda
Since our family doesn't leave near us, we are creating our own family traditions. My son is 3 so they are currently a work in progress and evolving as he gets older :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea. We are running into this as the families are growing and more grandchildren are born. People have been talking about how gifting should be done, as it is starting to get pricey. Will have to share your tradition with family. Happy holidays.
ReplyDeleteMy Moms side of the family large 8 siblings--I have 19 cousins and there are 7 second cousins---we are ALL about the name exchange too!!
ReplyDeleteHoliday traditions are so important! I think they help our children realize where they come from and help guide a path to being the best person they can be!
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you have such a great family! Your kids are gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteWhat a cute photo of your kids! We love to make Christmas cookies together and we all go over to my Mother-in-laws house for a big meal and chit chat. I am the youngest of six kids so we also did the gift exchange.
ReplyDeleteThis is a wonderful tradition. I am sure it is a blast for the kids.
ReplyDeleteThat photo of your kiddos is adorable :) Sounds like you have some great family traditions! When my Dad's father was still alive, we always drew names for that side of the family, too, because with 8 brothers & sisters, all their kids, and THEIR kids - it got to be crazy! Haha.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely tradition and that pic of them them smiling is so beautiful. I will be attending my Toyland event and can't wait to see what fun stuff awaits.
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