Christmas Traditions

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Traditions are a funny thing.  Sometimes, you don't realize you have one until you've been doing the same thing for years and years, while other times you set out to create them (i.e. the concept of the "first annual" anything).  This will be my sixth Christmas with Mike and the fourth we've celebrated together in our same home.  In that time, we've started a few of each type of tradition, and I love each and every one of them.

Since the beginning of our relationship, we've always exchanged Hallmark cards.  Not just on Christmas, but also on birthdays, anniversaries, and Valentine's Day, we've always made a point to choose a card and write a note to each other.  Sometimes they're funny and witty while other time they're heart felt (with usually still a bit of humor).  This year, Mike's even sings!

Another tradition we have, that we purposely began our first year together, is purchasing a dated ornament.  My parents have always done this, and it's so fun to unwrap the box, see the "1979" written on it, and think about how many different trees it's been on.  Together, Mike and I have a simple ball, a few pop culture characters, and many wonderful ornaments from our wedding last year.  This year, while picking out our cards, we found this fun, dated ornament at Walmart to add to our tree.

The one thing about getting a new ornament every year, especially for those of us with a small apartment tree, is that it's easy to run out of room!  To make every part of our home festive, I've started making these fun wire ornament hangers.  They fit in little spots like Mike's desk or on our night stands.  All you need are two things: needle-nose pliers and wire (I used extra 12 gauge wire from hanging drop ceiling).  Use the pliers to twist the wire into any shape or word you desire; this will make the base of the hanger.  I chose the word "Joy."  Leave about 1 foot of untwisted wire at the end of your design to make the actual hanger.  Twist that wire into a hook shape, and hang your ornament!

What all of these traditions culminate in is a new one we began last year.  This will be out second Charleston Christmas, and for the second year in a row, we have planned a trip up north to be with our family.  Instead of bringing up all of our gifts to one another, we enjoy a smaller Christmas exchange, just the two of us, before we leave.  We wear our pajamas, listen to Christmas music (have you heard Pandora's Hallmark station?), and open cards, stockings, and gifts.

Looking to start your own tradition this year?  You can find more Hallmark inspiration here.  Plus, click here to save $1.00 off of a two Hallmark Greeting Card purchase at Walmart, minimum $1.00 purchase required.  Take advantage of the savings and #SendHallmark this holiday season.

• What is your favorite Christmas tradition?
• Do you send cards every Christmas?