ten holiday traditions

It is hard to believe that December is right around the corner! Fall semester flew by in the blink of an eye. Since there is not much of a season change living in Florida, the holidays tend to creep up on me. After finals finish up I am home free to spend time with family, and drink PLENTY of hot chocolate fireside. To help get into the spirit I put together a list of my favorite holiday traditions. What does your family do for the holidays? 

1. Watching Holiday Movies 
From classics like Home Alone, Elf, or The Grinch my family binge watches the Hallmark Channel during the month of December. It is the perfect activity on a snowy winter night. We make fresh hot chocolate and peppermint bark to snack on. 

2. Playing in the Snow
After a fresh blanket of snow covers the ground, I put on my winter gear and head to the slopes. Snow angels, sledding, and snowball fights are all possible outcomes of a day off from work.  A North Face jacket and UGG boots are a must. 

3. Baking Cookies
Fresh baked gingerbread or sugar cookies are a classic at any of our family parties. Whether they are store bought or homemade – I think I eat more cookies than Santa during the month. My favorite recipe can be found here. 

4. Picking out a Tree
Our town in New England has the cutest tree farm called Noel's. It's complete with a petting zoo, tractor rides, bonfires, and even Santa himself. Whether you have a faux or real tree decorating is always the best part. 

5. Decorating the House 
Our house looks nothing short of Santa’s Workshop during the holidays. I make homemade wreaths each year with branches collected from our own back yard. This video has a great tutorial on how you can make your own. 

6. Buying Gifts
My family has recently started doing “experiences” like trips or concerts for our presents. I still like to buy immediate family and close friends small personal items to show my appreciation. The best holiday gift ideas can be found on Nordstrom & The Washington Post. 

7. Giving Back 
Easily one of the most rewarding parts of the holidays is giving to those that are less fortunate. My family always volunteers with Toys for Tots by sorting gifts and buying for the local shelters. But even writing cards for others is an affordable and easy thing to do. Check out the fundraiser that Macy’s does every year in partnership with the Make-A-Wish foundation. 

8. Ice Skating 
Looking for a way to mix up your routine workout at the gym? Ice skating is hands down my favorite cardio exercise during winter. Burn up to 650 calories an hour and glide around on skates? Count me in. 

9. Winter Bonfires 
Starting a fire with snow coming down is no simple endeavor. My survival instincts kick in as we gather handfuls of pine needles, and branches to use as tinder. Once it gets sparked we all bundle up and toast marshmallows under the moon lit sky.

10. Holiday Parties 
Ugly Sweater Parties, Frozen themed Happy Hours, and New Year’s Eve celebrations are all a must in our house. We love looking for ideas on Pinterest for drinks and desserts to surprise our guests with. 

© Copyright 2017 Rachael Maurais