We hold a few dear holiday family traditions in the Correale household. As a parent of four kids, I saved their handmade ornaments and holiday items and pulled them out each holiday to decorate the Christmas tree. Even though all my children are grown, and we have grandkids, they love to look at the crafts and remember each of them.
Over Thanksgiving, we put everyone’s name on a piece of paper, and each of us pulls a name, in secret, and that is the person we are giving a gift to at Christmas. We have created a fun and family-competitive game where, on Christmas Eve, everyone places $10 on the tree. Before any presents are opened, each of us can guess who their Secret Santa person is, and the person who guesses correctly receives the tree money.
Another family tradition we still enjoy is making cookies together. I love sugar cookies and decorating them with colorful icing and sprinkles. Though my kids are in various locations, the goal is to be together as a family for the Christmas holiday. We enjoy playing games, laughing, and watching a favorite holiday movie. We still enjoy watching How the Grinch Stole Christmas together and singing with the Whos in Whoville!
Last minute tips to spruce up your dining table:
- Fun holiday napkin-folding tips.
- Tips on How to set your table from Emily Post.
- Use what you have and create a centerpiece for your dining table or buffet quickly and cost-effectively. Keep the arrangement low-profile so your guests can see each other across the table. Use fresh fruit, grocery-store flowers, herbs, and cuttings to create a quick and affordable piece. For ideas and DIY tips, click here to view my Pinterest Board.
Have a fabulous holiday filled with friends, family, and laughter!
By Debbie Correale, Redesign Right, LLC. Stay connected on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Houzz, and Instagram. Feature photo licensed from Pixabay.