seeking favorite holiday traditions from all faiths

[sueami]

hello all,
i'm wondering if anyone would be willing to post their favorite holiday traditions and the faith/spirituality that they arise from...

i have two little ones and just this year am feeling energetic enough to think about consciously crafting a meaniful holiday celebration before my oldest begins associating christmas with overconsumption of overpackaged and unnecessary consumer goods, which was the primary christmas tradition of my family of origin.
i also want them to understand that there are many different ways that people connect with transcendence/God/whatever you may name it, so that when the time comes for them to take up their spiritual quest, they will see the many paths open to them.

so, would you mind offering up traditions, big or small, that help you connect with love, joy, gratitude or generosity (or any other state of grace) ?
many thanks in advance,
susan

[ladylee]

Hi again ...


The main tradition I'd like to start would revolve around giving. Giving toys to children in need, helping at a soup kitchen, visiting nursing homes, etc.

And I'd also like gift-giving to be mostly homemade things--like a poem, or pictures, crafts, etc.

I'd love for her to gain a sense of how to celebrate with food--conscious preparation & appreciative consumption.

And some traditions revolving around nature and the season--will have to do some brainstorming there.

It's a wonderful time of the year, isn't it!

[Mollie]

My mom always made us pajamas for Christmas, and that was the one gift we opened on Christmas eve, and got to wear them that night & in all the pictures. It was always neat. I am ~~~trying~~~ to get some made for my kids, but the 'ole time situation (& laziness) is a problem. But I WILL do it.

Also, leaving cookies & milk out for santa, and a carrot for the reindeer. and reading "night before christmas".

can you tell we love Christmas @ my house?