The Christmas holiday is all about traditions in my family.  The traditions range from the locations of the celebrations to the food that is eaten and even to the gifts we are given.

Let’s start with location.  Christmas Eve evening is always spent at my mom’s parents’ home.  For me, Christmas day is spent at my parents’ house.  My dad’s mom comes for lunch, and we all exchange our gifts at this time.

Food is a major part of the get-togethers in our family (and I’m sure yours is no different).  My mom’s mom makes spiced tea for Christmas Eve.  My mom typically makes at least a couple batches of pumpkin bread and gingerbread cookies during the holidays.  Our Christmas day meal also typically consists of the “traditional” meal of turkey, ham, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls, deviled eggs, and a vegetable (cream cheese corn this year).

Yes, you are seeing a $5 bill on a Christmas tree in the photo above.  My mom’s dad’s dad started a tradition when my mom was small of putting money on the Christmas tree.  My grandmother has carried that tradition on for us grandkids.  We used to get $1 but, at some point, she increased the value to $5.

What about you and your family?  Do you have any special traditions that you love and look forward to each Christmas?

Here is my photo album from Christmas 2008.