Holiday traditions – whether it be decorations, food or activities – really are what make the holidays so special. We look forward to enjoying special times and sharing memories of past gatherings. Last weekend I as I went through our Christmas boxes, it warmed my heart to see treasured decorations and think about holidays in the past.
I painted these Santa figures right before John was born, note that Santa’s list has “Carrs” on it. So these have been part of our Christmas decorations for over 30 years.
Mark’s mom collected these carolers and he always loved them. So he started a collections for our family. This represents us, our parents and our children. Most years we add something new, this year we added the little reindeer.
Now as our children get married and have children, we start their collections. So last year we added a “little Berkley” caroler to John and Lauren’s collection. Our collection also includes the clock maker and the woodworker Santa in his workshop to represent Mark’s hobbies.
Traditional foods – the tastes and smells – truly make your house “home for the holidays.” When I was growing up we would make cookie trays and deliver them to our neighbors, so we continue that tradition. Our favorites include sugar cookies, gingerbread cookies, chocolate crackle cookies and peanut blossoms.
One of the Carr Christmas traditions was baking and decorating sugar cookies, so we always try to work that in during the Christmas season. Last year we switched from buttercream frosting in bowls to royal icing in squeeze bottles – which let all the “big” kids be more creative with their decorating. Then they get to take them home – so good to sit down with a cup of hot cocoa and some homemade Christmas cookies.
Enjoy your traditions and have a wonderful Christmas season!
Click on the link below for our cookie tray ideas:
