The kids and I have a new holiday tradition of hanging up the Christmas tree and enjoying different flavors of hot cocoa while watching a movie. If you’ve not already noticed, yeah, I’m struggling with blogmas. But I’m determined to keep up with Blogmas and fulfill the promise of 12 blog posts because my mama didn’t raise a quitter.
Family Holiday Tradition
Christmas 2023 is truly one of my favorite holidays in a long time. While Christmas has always been the holiday I look forward to the most, over the years, it has become a time I dread because it is so overwhelming for me. It has been a smooth and beautiful ride this season because I chose to be more intentional with how I spend my time and delegate the things that I’m not great at.
The Classic Movies
I had three movies in mind: Home Alone, Baby’s Day, and Christmas Chronicles. Because most children like Home Alone and Baby’s Day Out, I thought it was a great idea to introduce my toddlers to these beloved classics. But this took an unexpected turn, as my toddlers weren’t as captivated by any of these movies as I had hoped. Instead of laughter and excitement, as I expected, they seemed more interested in tablets. They always enjoy watching Boss Baby, so I decided to go with that. It was a great movie day, with toddlers laughing, my teen giggling, and me getting so much joy from their excitement.
Decorating Christmas Tree
When it comes to DIY or decorating anything, I just don’t have the patience. But since the goal is to bring out the Christmas magic, I got to decorate our Christmas tree with my kids. And it was one of our most treasured fun memories as a family. The shared moments of hanging ornaments and fluffing branches add an imperfection and unique touch to our home and help us create lasting memories. It’s beautiful how a simple task became a source of laughter, creativity, and warmth.
Hot Cocoa Extravaganza
What’s a movie day without the perfect mug of hot cocoa? Joseph Jr. was in charge of hot cocoa, a role he took very seriously. He wanted to go to the extent of making customized cocoa bombs. Did I mention I don’t have the patience for anything DIY? Yeah, immediately, no. I got different flavors of hot cocoa bombs from Target, and we enjoyed so many of the options I got.
If you ask me right now what my favorite day was in 2023, it’d be this day. At first, I thought the joy was coming from me seeing my kids having a good time, but the more I think of this day, the more I realize that my inner child is happy; this would have meant everything to eight-year-old me. I am so grateful to be able to put together a fun memory like this for my family, and being able to document bits and pieces of this day is the cherry on top.
The True Magic of Christmas
What fun memories do you have with your family this year? It does not have to be something huge or perfect—just something that makes you smile, brings happy tears, or is a moment you’ll forever cherish. I remember a quote that said, “The true magic of Christmas lies in the love we share and the moments we create together as a family. It’s the simple act of giving—not just presents wrapped in festive paper, but the gift of our time, attention, and affection.” I hope this holiday has been a joy that lights up your face and a magic that lives in your heart.
