New Traditions

Henry had to complete a project at school about our holiday traditions. Ever since then he has been very mindful about making sure we complete all our traditions, and even wanting to add some new ones. Lucky for him, I already had some plans up my sleeve.

On Christmas Eve Eve, we put the kids to bed at 7pm. Then we ran into their room with bells on (literally), and told them to get in the car for a Christmas lights tour in our pajamas. Complete with snacks, of course. Henry could not believe how late we let him stay up. John was shocked that he was allowed to eat in the car. Peter cried when it was time to go home and go back to bed. And Frances fell asleep halfway into our adventure. I didn't take much to make it a magical night for them. And now that we've done it once, Henry is looking forward to a surprise late night wake-up every year.

On the afternoon of Christmas Eve, we made Saltine Toffee for our neighbors. Then Henry and John took turns being "elves" and delivering them. On our walk around the neighborhood, we passed our mailman hard at work on Christmas Eve. Henry flagged him down and said, "Here is some candy. Thanks for all of our mail!" And now Henry has declared this another new tradition.

Lastly, I received the most darling sign from our friend, and hung it in our kitchen during the holidays. After hearing us say, "Merry Marietta Christmas!" all month long, Peter caught on. Every morning when he woke up, he would ask me, "Mama, is it Merry Marietta Christmas yet? I want to go there." So the sign is sticking around for good. Merry Marietta Christmas, y'all!