Traditions

During this time of year our families have many traditions. I love traditions. I love doing the same thing over and over from year to year.

Growing up in the Ginn house we celebrated Christmas on December 23rd, which we called Christmas Eve Eve. It was a night of chow mein or pizza, Welch's Red Grape Juice, the reading of the Christmas story, stocking stuffers and gifts. We have done the same thing now for so many years and now Scott and I get to share that with our spouses and now children. I'm so excited for Addy to experience the Ginn Christmas this year.

Another exciting tradition is one my dad and I have been doing for a few years now. Cutting down a real balsam Christmas tree. My dad and I go hunting for a the perfect tree on a tree farm. This year we went back and forth between two trees about 50 times, but it was fun and was something I share with my dad each year. Of course, my dad is the one that works hard and cuts it down with a saw. The best part is when we get candy canes after we pick out the tree.

Cookie making is something my mom and I have been doing together on and off for years. This year we are going to be making cookies at her house on December 13th with my grandma and Addy. I am looking forward to sharing together with the wonderful ladies in my life. My mom and I also took Addy for the first time to Macy's on the 8th floor.

Since I have been married I have acquired new traditions with the Paxson's also. On the Paxson side they have always celebrated on Christmas Day, which worked out great for our family. The Christmas at the Paxson's is a two day process and a fun one at that! We start one day with stocking stuffers and a few presents. The next day is full of present opening, the "money" game and lots of great food made by mom Paxson. My favorite food is a dip they get every year from Harry and David's...mmmmmm LOVE IT! Mom also makes those great Holly Drops which usually I eat them all....I love those red hots. The tradition has now changed a little and we celebrate the week before Christmas and we just all spend the weekend together :) Very excited for Addy and Ellie and their first Christmas'.

Another favorite tradition of mine is going to see ALL my grandparents. My grandparents are so precious to me and I don't think I could go a year without spending Christmas with them. Each Christmas is so special and holds so many dear memories. From Christmas carols-"Come on Ring those Bells", grandma's spaghetti,Christmas story, goodies, and special moments that will last a life time.

As each year comes new traditions start and some change. But the best part of all is being able to spend each moment with the ones I love.

This year I am looking forward to Addy's first Christmas and starting new traditions with her.

Enjoy your Christmas season and remember why we celebrate this wonderful day. Because of HIM we get to have these traditions that we cherish.

Merry CHRISTmas.