The beginning of Christmas traditions

The advent season is so short that we like to start celebrating the day after Thanksgiving, which I lovingly refer to as “Christmas Friday”. As my kids are get older keeping the Christmas spirit alive has become a personal goal. Here are a few things we do in our home during December. This post is sponsored by Package from Santa. All opinions are my own.

Decorating from top to bottom. Sadly, I realized our stockings and tree skirt are missing and must have been left behind in California. Thank goodness for the kindness of family and expedited shipping. 

Sending out Christmas cards. I made it my mission to send out our cards on December first. They are scheduled to arrive here on Wednesday! 

And speaking of merry mail we have been using Package from Santa for the second year in a row and I'm still impressed by their attention to detail.

The quality and customization of Package from Santa is truly amazing. There are six categories with several layouts available to choose from including ones that reference the family Elf, Christian themes (like the one we got) and ones about moving, just to name a few. Not to leave either girl out, I was able to include both their names into the letter and only needed to edit a few pronouns and adjectives to make it plural instead of singular. (Can I call that a mom hack?! Praise hand emoji)

The extras are also super fun! I have a call set up from Santa which is accessed through the free app. I also customized a Nice list Guide which you can make for yourself here. Package from Santa is offering 25% off right now when you order any package! Just use code FAM2060 . Start a fun new tradition your children will remember for years to come.

Watching Christmas movies. Find our favorites here. 

Employing the family Elf, Merry. She makes her appearance on December 1st. 

Baking cookies.

Chocolate advent calendars.

We also do a book advent. I'm still unpacking boxes and of course the Christmas books are still in the garage. Guess I know what I need to do before Friday!

Advent reading. This will be our first year participating in an advent reading. We’re using the book Prepare Him Room by Marty Machowski. It is a bi-weekly reading plus activity to be done as a family. Activities include songs, making crafts and at the end, baking cookies (recipes included!) Every activity can be 'customized' according to your child's age range. Spending time together in this Season learning about the most glorious birth of our Savior is so very special and worth all the fore planning; thankfully this book makes it easy! I’m now interested in the companion guide.

Thanks to Audra Jennings and New Growth Press for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Diffusing seasonal essential oils. I recently purchased Plant Therapy’s Frankincense and coupled with orange sweet and cinnamon, it straight up smells like Christmas Cheer in here!

I found myself whistling Deck the Halls in Sam’s Club yesterday and oddly wasn't embarrassed at all. Bring on Christmas!!

What are some family traditions that help you celebrate this holiday season?