On the Second Day of Christmas, Spectrum Design Group gives you: Two New Traditions and One Room to Refresh in a pear tree.
In a world of Instagram DIY decorating reels and nonstop advertisements being pushed to our devices, this is the time of the year that we decide if we allow the season to feel overwhelming or full of the spirit that warms our hearts. Tradition keeps us connected to the past. It is much more than a “thing” we do. The significance lies in the feelings evoked and the memories made. I love hearing about the holiday traditions my friends and family participate in and how they have kept it alive generations later.
Christmas Eve Box
In my immediate family, a treasured tradition is gifting a Christmas Eve box for each member. My husband and I switch off every other year purchasing the kids’ Christmas pajamas always buying for each other, too. We place the new pajamas inside a wrapped box with a new book and all change into them immediately before we settle in for the night after opening. It has turned into quite a “battle of the craziest pajamas” between my husband and me, some years leaving me with a onesie that I couldn’t seem to figure out how to maneuver myself in and out of.
New Holiday Traditions
If you find yourself in a new season of life, whether that is with new littles in the family or maybe as empty nesters, implementing new traditions may feel daunting. I would love to share two traditions, for any age, that I am excited to start with my own family this year.
Jólabókaflód
The first one is an Icelandic tradition known as Jólabókaflód, or “Christmas book flood.” It is celebrated by gifting each family member a new book and then sitting around reading and enjoying hot cocoa, chocolate, and sometimes even special beer late into the night. I love this tradition because it serves as a reminder to slow down and savor the season and those around you.
See the Lights
Another all-age favorite tradition is bundling up and looking at the lights. If you are more spontaneous, this can be as simple as driving around the neighborhood listening to tunes of the season, and sipping hot cocoa. If you like braving the cold and want a more planned adventure, consider heading to Allerton Park for their Holiday Glow event. Complete with photo ops, food trucks, and music. This may be the start of a new tradition for years to come that the whole family will enjoy.
“When we recall Christmas past, we usually find that the simplest things, not the great occasions, give off the greatest glow of happiness” – Bob Hope
