Christmas Traditions

We had a lesson today in quorum meeting where we discussed Christmas traditions.  There was a message shared from Elder L. Tom Perry who invites us to write down our Christmas traditions.  As I pondered the discussion and thought about our own traditions I have to say the things that I remember from growing up include the following.

12 Days of Christmas - This was a great thing from my childhood.  I have yet to do it as an adult, I don't know why.  Perhaps it is all of the preparation and work that goes into it.  Mom is really good at that and this was one of those things that I think we all loved.  I think it helped us all to realize the blessings of giving.

Jerusalem Supper - Jay actually talked about this one during the meeting.  We all dress up like we were from Jerusalem at the time of Christ.  We then act out the nativity while Luke 2 is read.  That happens after the meal which is based on the cuisine from that area of the world. 

Chimes - Perhaps my least favorite tradition.  We all get chimes that are different notes and we play when our turn comes up in a song.  Not sure why, just don't care for this one all that much.  Mom absolutely loves this one. 

Christmas Stories - We read a Christmas Story every night in December.  We have a book of some of our favorite stories and read that.  I cry at the same parts my mom would cry.  What gives?

Taking Turns Opening Presents - we've always just done it this way.

Fudge - We make batches of our fudge and deliver it to friends and neighbors.  Though the LBH has introduced several new flavors of fudge the traditional ones were Milk Chocolate and Rocky Road. 

Bowling - This one doesn't always happen but we have gone bowling on Christmas Eve more than once. 

Fondue - We've always done fondue around the holidays.  In the last two years when Rachel comes down with the kids and I go and campout at the folks we have begun doing fondue on Christmas Eve.  This has to be my all time favorite meal. 

White Elephant - Also over the last two years (though we have done them prior also) we have had a white elephant exchange with a bit of a twist.  Whatever you take home with you is supposed to be displayed in your living room for a year.  Two years ago I had a death mask and a picture of an old car.  I displayed them, in fact I am still displaying the car.  Last year I got a stuffed Mallard duck.  It didn't manage to stay on display.  We'll have to see what this year brings. 

Now I am sure to have missed some and will probably have more come to memory.  I thought I should write down something though.  I am grateful for the season and for the Savior who makes all things possible.