by Lydia Fuller

Created on: October 22, 2009

Perhaps you have moved to a new state. Maybe you've just gotten married. For whatever reason, you are in search of some ideas for some new Christmas traditions. Let me tell you about a few of my own, that are not only easy, but cheap. Memories do not have to cost a fortune!

Tradition 1: Throw on your jammies and fill some thermoses with hot chocolate or coffee. Bring some Christmas cookies or candy. Let the kiddos grab their pillows and blankets. Jump in the car, crank up the Christmas tunes and go look at Christmas lights! This is a definite family favorite!

Tradition 2: Instead of buying gifts for family members, we make cookies, cakes, brownies and candy. It is not only cheaper but is a great activity for you and your spouse and/or children. Anyone of any age can help somehow! Little ones can get ingredients from the refrigerator. Have a designated stirrer. Whatever is appropriate for their skill level. They make lots of decorative plastic wrap, disposable containers and baking pans. Who doesn't like food?

Tradition 3: String popcorn for your tree. This one is a bit time consuming but well worth it. When company comes over they can't help but love the nostalgia of it. Grab some fishing line, some needles and pop a bunch of plain (no butter) popcorn. Settle down in front of the fire or a movie and string away. Don't be surprised if some of the popcorn gets eaten.

Tradition 4: Did you have a favorite Christmas movie as a kid? Well now is the time to introduce it to your family. Who knows? It just might become their favorite as well!

Tradition 5: The reading of the Nativity story. Every year on Christmas Eve we read the story of Jesus' birth. The person who gets to do the reading always feels very honored and we try to do this on a rotation.

Tradition 6: Christmas Eve is always such a busy time, with trying to keep the children at a reasonably calm level and company dropping by. Make a cheese and veggie tray, get some chips and dip and perhaps a plate of cookies and set it all on the kitchen table. Disposable plates and cups are very helpful, because who wants to be doing dishes when Santa is coming? This is a perfect Christmas Eve set up.

These are just a few of my traditions. Maybe try a couple out this year. Who knows? They just might become traditions of your own! Remember, anything can be counted as a tradition, even a last minute trip to Wal-Mart! Take a deep breath, don't stress and have a very Merry Christmas!

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