To be honest, I didn’t think I had that many traditions until I sat down to write this post, ha!  However, upon reflection, I realized that we do! Some are old from when I was a kid, some are new since I’ve become a mom. I hope these inspire you to start your own Christmas traditions with your family or just for yourself!

:: $2 Bills

My grandfather always gave me a little money for Christmas.

It was always in my stocking and I always had to open it last.

Whatever the amount, it was always in the form of $2 bills. Now, if I give money to my older nieces and nephews, I give it in $2 bills. They love it. It’s neat because you don’t see that denomination often. (Note: Banks tend to stock up on $2 bills at Christmas, but if you are giving a large amount, you may need to hit more than one bank.) I plan to carry this one on with my son when he is a little older. 

:: Watching “It’s A Wonderful Life”

I watch this movie every December. Sometimes my husband or my mom joins me, most of the time it’s just me and some wine. It’s so sweet, Donna Reed is gorgeous, Jimmy Stewart is awesome and the message always tugs at my heart: be thankful for what you have, even if it’s not perfect or expected. 

:: Buttermilk Pie & Better Than Robert Redford Pie

I waited tables right after I got married. That year, the restaurant I was working at published its recipe for Buttermilk Pie in the newspaper. Having served this pie hundreds of times, and of course tasting it myself, I know it is sooooo good. I have been making it at Christmas for my hubby since our very first holiday as a hitched couple. Here is the recipe:

My mother-in-law made Chocolate Icebox Pie for well over 30 years at Christmas. Only in the last year did I learn that it is often referred to as Better Than Robert Redford Pie. Whatever you call it, if you like chocolate pudding, whip cream and nuts, this dessert is for you. My father-in-law has taken over the pie making now, but I proudly share her recipe here:

:: Tamales

I didn’t like tamales for the longest time. The reason why?

The first time I ate one, nobody told me to take the corn husk off the outside.

Oops. Obviously, I thought they were terrible, lol! (Side note: whoever served it to me without instructions, you are on my naughty list!) Once I realized the proper way to eat them, I’ve been hooked since. 

:: A New Ornament Every Year

This is my newest and most favorite tradition. I have gotten my son a new Christmas ornament every year since he was born. The first year marked our family of two becoming three. Each ornament since has been a reflection of who he was that year: the owl ornament because that was one of his first words, the Charlie Brown ornament because he loved The Peanuts Movie, etc. I can’t wait to see what all he will have by the time he ready for his Christmas tree in his own home.

Look for more traditions from others here at CC Moms Blog. And let us know yours in the comments below! Merry Christmas!