by Kristina Nelson

Created on: October 08, 2010

A homespun or traditional Christmas is diverse for every person and family.  It’s uniquely formed over time with family traditions, recipes, Christmas decorations, random acts of kindness, giving to others, and celebrating – all with plain and uncomplicated methods.

Food is often the first item that is associated with a homemade Christmas.  Food choices or baked goods, which generate a homemade Christmas, are different for everyone.  For some people it will be a recipe handed down from other generations, such as a hot punch, a special pie, or cookie that is made every Christmas.  If you do not have a special recipe, you may want to start with searching through recipes you have.  Find one that makes you feel at home for Christmas.  Maybe one that has a story behind it, or one that you can begin to pass down to other family members. 

Go caroling or sing at home as a family.  Singing or playing instruments is a simple and traditional way to create joyful music to form a homemade Christmas.

Decorations, inside and outside the home, infuse cheerful and loving feelings to those who view them.   Homemade Christmas decorations are more meaningful and involve the entire family, such as stringing cranberries and popcorn for inside or outside the home.  Bring nature inside, by decorating tables and counters with evergreen sprigs, fresh fruits and berries, or pine cones.  Make homemade or handcrafted decorations for your home, tree, and outdoors.

Smells are often associated with a homemade Christmas.  The smell of fresh evergreen, peppermint candy canes, hot chocolate, pies baking in the oven, cranberries simmering with cloves and cinnamon – all inviting smells of the Christmas spirit.  Simple fragrant candles can also create those appetizing and warm aromas.

Being surrounded by friends and family brings joy and cheer to a room for Christmas.  Sit around a table, living room or fireplace with friends and family for a simple and enjoyable Christmas.

Simple gift giving, such has homemade gifts and stocking stuffers, bestow more meaning, than store purchased gifts.  Homemade gifts are often more useful and kept a lot longer in each family.  Homemade ornaments can be packed away and brought out each year, convey delight, and in some cases a family legacy and memories.  Home gifts of baked, family favorite recipes, are another way to spread the homespun sentiment.

Giving  to others in need, such as a charity, overseas children going without, or humbly taking part in a random act of kindness conveys a homespun Christmas.  Giving to others, especially at Christmas, leaves you with a healthy, over-all sense of well being.  By giving to others during the Christmas holiday you are helping someone and sharing your talents or blessings.

Family traditions are a common way to create a homemade Christmas.  Traditions are typically a deep-rooted activity, which is passed down through the generations.  For example, many families have a tradition of baking a birthday cake for Jesus, while others take a drive on Christmas Eve to view Christmas lights.  Every family is different and with different beliefs regarding Christmas.  Create a family tradition and hopefully your children will pass it down through their generations. 

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