Merry Christmas to you and yours

“It’s Christmas morning.” Those words are like music to your ears as a youngster and waking up to the Christmas presents being unwrapped, opening the stockings and foods of all smells wafting through the home are memories of the traditions to come. For many those memories are ones that will last a lifetime. For many, the children are moved out and now the grandbabies are headed over for the day and things are quite the same. The traditions change, but the memories will last a lifetime.

Those Christmas memories to last a lifetime are really here to stay. So what are they?

1. Traditional Family Gathering:

   • Host a traditional Christmas dinner with family or friends. Prepare a festive feast with roast turkey, ham, or your favorite holiday dishes.

2. Holiday Movie Marathon:

   • Have a Christmas movie marathon with classics like “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “A Christmas Carol,” or modern favorites like “Elf” and “Home Alone.”

3. Christmas Brunch:

   • Start your day with a festive Christmas brunch. Serve special breakfast items like cinnamon rolls, quiches, and seasonal fruit.

4. Gift Exchange:

   • If you exchange gifts, plan a time for everyone to open their presents. Consider doing a Secret Santa or White Elephant gift exchange for added fun.

5. Volunteer or Give Back:

   • Christmas is a time of giving. Consider volunteering at a local charity or organizing a charitable activity with friends and family.

6. Outdoor Activities:

   • Depending on your location and climate, spend some time outdoors. Go for a Christmas Day walk, have a snowball fight, or even organize a family sledding adventure.

7. Game Night:

   • Gather your loved ones for a Christmas-themed game night. Play board games, card games, or even Christmas trivia to add a competitive and entertaining element.

8. Virtual Celebration:

   • If you can’t be with your loved ones in person, organize a virtual Christmas celebration. Host a video call, play online games together, and share the joy of the season.

9. Attend a Christmas Service:

   • Attend a Christmas church service to celebrate the religious aspects of the holiday.

10. Decorate Gingerbread Houses:

    • Set up a gingerbread house decorating station. This can be a fun and creative activity for both kids and adults.

11. Visit a Christmas Market:

    • If there’s a Christmas market in your area, take a stroll through the festive stalls, enjoy holiday treats, and soak in the atmosphere.

12. Christmas Crafts:

    • Engage in some festive crafts. Create handmade ornaments, wreaths, or other decorations for a personal touch to your holiday decor.

13. Festive Music and Karaoke:

    • Create a Christmas playlist and enjoy some festive tunes. Consider having a holiday karaoke session for added entertainment.

14. Reflect and Set Intentions:

    • Take a moment to reflect on the past year and set positive intentions for the upcoming one. This can be done individually or as a group.

Remember that the most important thing is to spend time with loved ones and create memories that will last. Tailor your Christmas Day activities to suit your preferences and traditions. These are your traditions, so make them what they are for you and your family. Always remember, it is never too late to start new ones and change up old ones. Make them your own.

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!

The Homestead Metal Family