Swings & Roundabouts
Christmas Traditions
It's only a few weeks to go until Christmas I've decided not to focus on toys or gifts instead I'm going to look at the traditions that I associate with Christmas and maybe you will too. I also decided to look at some ways of keeping the kids entertained and also a parenting tip for getting rid of the pesky soother.
The Yule Log: One of the old Irish traditions is placing a lit candle on a Yule Log. As a child, we were always told that this was to guide Mary and Joseph, who were looking for a place to stay, would find their way to our homes. After a bit of research however, I found out that the story was merely a cover used during the days of English occupation, and the light was placed in the home in case any Catholic priests found themselves lost and with nowhere to go.
Leaving Milk and Cookies for Santa: While not quite as religious as the last one mentioned, this is another longstanding tradition that kids love to do. After all, the man himself surely gets peckish trying to reach every home in the world in one night? Plus, don't forget to leave a carrot out for Rudolph too. He's equally busy!
New PJ's: This is one that I think might be unique to me, but I'd be interested to find out if anyone else does it. This one was actually started by my Mum. We'd get home from Christmas Eve mass, and there'd be a new pair of PJ's on the bed waiting for me. I've carried this on myself and have every intention of doing the same for my little girl.
A Story Before Bedtime. A Christmas book:
"The Jolly Christmas Postman" is a book that I've had since I was very young. I used to get a massive kick out of taking out the letters and reading them aloud. I always loved the artwork too, and like with the PJ's tradition, this book will be passed down to my little one for her to hopefully get the same enjoyment as I did from it.