Hello everyone! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas!
For the last day of my Christmas Blogging Challenge, I wanted to talk about what Christmas is like for all of us, because I am sure it not only varies from country to country, but even family to family.
Christmas in the United States is very commercial and busy. I absolutely love Christmas and it is my favorite time of year, so I try to soak up every drop. However, sometimes it can feel like a whirlwind with all the gift exchanges, holiday parties, shopping, baking and cooking commitments, and even more. So, in my household, I have tried to find ways to make it more relaxing and personal.
For one, we try to always stay home for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. I am sure I won’t be able to continue pulling this stunt forever, I would at least like to continue it while my daughter is small and Santa is a big deal. On Christmas Eve, we light candles and the fireplace, dim the lights, and snuggle up on the couch to watch Christmas movies and drink hot coco. Everyone in our house is gifted new pajamas to wear that night that we all open together, along with a new Christmas book.
On Christmas Day, we have a relaxing morning opening presents and have a special brunch. Some years we have done 4-5 dishes for brunch alone, but this year we kept things simple and made cheese blintzes topped with fresh fruit – just as delicious and filling without all the effort and dishes of a huge production.
After a day of relaxing and enjoying our gifts, my husband and I will get a big dinner production going. In years past we have done dishes such as Honey Roasted Ham, Roasted Cornish Game Hens, Beef Wellington, and Prime Rib.
We always like to attend a local holiday event or two if we are able, and this year were lucky enough to make it to both the Nutcracker at the Pacific Northwest Ballet, in addition to the “Wildlights” at Woodland Park Zoo. Other favorites that we like to frequent would be the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony in Leavenworth, and the Christmas Lights at Warm Beach.
So, what is Christmas like where you live, and what are some traditions that you like to participate in? Do you live here in Seattle and love some of these things as well? Is there something new I should try? I would love to hear!
Thank you all for sticking with me through my 12-Day Christmas Blog Challenge, and I wish you a very happy New Year!
X.O. – Abbey Co.
Your family has a wonderful tradition! I loved reading it. We go to the Xmas Eve service, then to dinner at a friend’s and then home. I read ‘Twas the Night before Christmas to our little boys. Then we put out carrots for the reindeer in case they’re hungry. We put out a snack for Santa and then go to bed. The morning we open gifts, eat breakfast lounge and then go to my in laws for dinner and exchange gifts with them. Happy new year!
A Christmas Eve service is something we need to work in one of these years. I think it is a lovely part of Christmas tradition! Happy new year to you as well!
This was a great series 😊! Loved your pictures and personal story! Happy New Year to your beautiful family💕
Aw thanks for following my stories! Happy new year to you as well
Your cheese blintzes look incredible!
Thank you! They are just My crepe recipe with a little sweetened ricotta in them. My favorite brunch food!