It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas...

Christmas will be here before we know it! There were many traditions in my family growing up, and several that I want to make "our own," especially since Braden is even more excited than myself about all that this season brings.

Here are some of the traditions that have seemed to carry on in our household thus far....

Christmas Decorating Thanksgiving weekend.

Making gingerbread cookies. The recipe is from my grandmother, and we love to spruce them up with our favorite candies. I think Ashlyn spent most of the time sneaking the candies!

Snacks and stories around the Christmas tree.

Peppernuts! Anyone heard of this Christmas treat? They are a bite sized cookies made with anise oil and have a very distinct flavor. My great grandmother used to make them, and the tradition has been passed down with each generation. Click on the play button to view video clip.

Although this isn't a tradition, this year was extra special as we were able to celebrate an early Christmas with my parents, who came to visit us last week. We were especially thankful to share time together during this season. So glad you could visit Dad and Mom!And the biggest celebration is yet to come-Christmas Eve/Day! We enjoy attending a Christmas Eve church service and then spending time with family celebrating our Savior's birth.