Christmas is a time to slow down and enjoy time with your loved ones. A time to celebrate the birth of Christ and the spirit of giving. I believe this season doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful if everyone commits to keeping it simple. I usually insist on lists of ideas for gifts. This takes the stress out of trying to pick out the perfect item and I know what I buy is a true want or need.

Another thing that doesn’t have to be difficult is traditions! Fear of more things on your to-do list shouldn’t keep you from starting fun new traditions because many are so easy to implement.

Creating fun, simple traditions is a great way to spend special time together while making lasting memories. Some of the simplest traditions we did are the ones I remember most from growing up. Here are some ideas to get you thinking of what might work for your family.

Simple Christmas Traditions to Try:

• Make homemade hot chocolate
• Drive around and look at Christmas lights (much easier than putting up a bunch yourself 😉 )
• Eat a special, simple Christmas Eve dinner (we usually have appetizers)
• Decorate together
• Read Christmas books together
• Have a snowman building contest
• Go sledding
• Play board or card games
• Make homemade ornaments with any craft supplies on hand
• Bake cookies or other treats together
• Build a gingerbread house (Ok, so this can be kind of complicated if you do it all from scratch, but it is fun!)

And the list goes on and on!

Sometimes the simplest ideas are the most fun. The important thing is to spend intentional time together – without TV, phones, iPods, or any other distractions and enjoy what truly matters. Talk, laugh, play, and make beautiful, lasting memories this Christmas.

What are your favorite family Christmas traditions?