Holiday Traditions That Keep Families Close ~ #ChosenByKids

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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.

One of my favorite pictures of our two oldest kids on Christmas Eve from a few years ago.

Back more years than I care to admit, this was just my Grandparents, my parents, my Dad's four siblings and spouses, then of course us cousins. Well, as you can imagine, this has grown into quite a huge get together with now two more generations included. There are eleven of us grandchildren, over twenty great-grandchildren, and now one precious great- great granddaughter. It's a packed house to say the least, and we would not have it any other way! We love that we are all close, and are staying that way by making sure we see each other every year for a fun night.

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 

Toys For Baby ~ Ebeanstalk.com Review

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Our new baby is due to arrive any day now! Yes, I have hit the point at 38 weeks and 4 days where I just want to hold and cuddle him already! =) Have been scouring all different places for New Toys for babies, after I realized last week that with all my planning and getting everything ready for our little guy that I didn't have one toy for him! oops... Mommy fail! When given the opportunity to review the Ebeanstalk site, I was thrilled. They really have a ton of newborn toys, not to mention products for my older two kiddos also. 

photo credit- Ebeanstalk.com

Finding a great toy or book on Ebeanstalk is super easy since they have so many to pick from. I found the site very easy to navigate with tabs for searching by brand, age, milestones or categories. I just picked Toys By Age and clicked on Baby Toys for Newborns. So many adorable items came up that would be perfect for our new little one. Then since I could not help myself I moved through all the other ages and found quite a few great picks in the Top selling toys for 1 year olds section too.