Like many children, opening a special gift on Christmas Eve was a highlight of the day. In our family, the gift usually contained a set of Christmas Pajamas and a new ornament. This tradition continues in our childrens' lives today.
This year, we enjoyed creating custom ornaments for our valued customers. It's fabulous to know our custom creations will hang upon family trees and be treasured for years to come. We enjoyed this endeavor so much, will be bringing back our custom ornaments next holiday season!
Reflecting on traditions past, we love the matching PJ's sets for families, and have made this a continued tradition in our home. This year we took the added step of having them personalized.
These adorable, trendy PJ's were ordered from Signature Little Ones, and will make for a great photo later this Eve.
Of course, leaving a treat for Santa is also a widespread tradition on Christmas Eve. Fresh baked cookies, a glass of milk, a carrot for Rudolf and some clementines are all ready to go and will be placed by the fireplace later this Eve. A personal note from the kiddies is an added touch, and they love reading what Santa replies in the morning ;)
Santa also leaves a trail of orange peels outside our kids' bedrooms and up and down the stairs to show he's visited while we were tucked in our beds. Such a heart-warming sight to see the kids faces light up with joy believing Santa had a peek at them while they slept. This moment is definitely one to bust out the video recorder for!
After opening our stockings, we take a break and sit down for a traditional breakfast. Fresh baked cinnamon buns, bacon, eggs and fruit are part of the usual spread, and provide the fuel for the marathon of present opening that ensues thereafter!
The remainder of our day is spent in our PJ's, curled up on the couches watching classic Christmas flicks, and usually includes a nap! A beautiful, festive meal at the Grandparents' closes off the day, and is a treasured tradition. And no matter how much we make a point of savoring the season and all it's joy and wonder, it always goes by in a flash.
What traditions do you enjoy in your family? How have they changed over the years?
Wishing you all very Merry Christmas with those nearest and dearest to you!
~The iParty Canada Team
