7 steps to an enjoyable family Christmas

To me, Christmas isn’t Christmas unless it is spent with loved ones.

In my next three family posts I am going to share with you some of my favorite ways to enjoy a family Christmas:

Hug Your Way Through The Holidays

Beginning the first of December, implement a new ‘hugging’ tradition in addition to the usual mistletoe. Hang holly or a piece of Christmas greenery in doorways around the house. Everyone who stands under the green sprigs gets a hug.

Learn About Customs in Other Countries

Instead of usual bedtime stories, read to your children about Christmas customs in other countries.

Give A Special Ornament

Every year, give each child special ornament that reminds you of him or her. It could just be a nice ornament or one that has special meaning. Over the years, your child will have built a nice collection of ornaments for his own tree when he leaves home.

Turn Ornament Making Into A Family Affair

Reserve a night for the entire family to make ornaments for your tree.

Special Family Outings

Go with family or friends on a special outing each December. View the lighting of your town’s Christmas tree or take in a concert or a local performance of The Nutcracker. Better still attend a Christmas Eve candlelight church service.

Read Together

Sit in front of a fire and read O Henry’s The Gift of the Magi aloud. Serve mulled cider and popcorn. Or, gather the whole family, and read aloud the Gospel story of Jesus’ birth. Other good titles include The Littlest Angel by Charles Tazewell, or The Little Drummer Boy by Ezra J. Keats. These tales illustrate the true meaning of giving.

A Merry Message Book

Start a special book for guests to write holiday messages in. When relatives gather ask everyone to describe a memorable Christmas. Get out the old books every year and reminisce about Christmases past.

Please stay tuned to my Family Life posts for more ideas on bringing joy to your family this holiday season.