New Christmas Tradition: Ornaments

People have all kinds of traditions when it comes to Christmas ornaments.

My parents had a pretty fun one.  They would buy a new Christmas ornament whenever we went on a vacation.  We had sailboat from Gulf Shores Alabama, a bear sleeping in a sleeping bag from Colorado, a Mickey Mouse from Disney World. I loved this tradition because every year when we looked at the Christmas tree we would remember our vacations. 

Since it's our first Christmas with Jackson, I thought I would start a new tradition.  Every year "Santa" is going to give Jackson a new ornament in his stocking (if it will fit).

This one from Macy's would be appropriate to give Jackson as I seem to always sing him Rudolf the red nose reindeer.  I know right, poor baby.

I don't like this one so much. I would hate to be reminded of all those bottles I had to wash when he was a baby.

Now, next year is when the fun really begins. I plan on buying the most funky, fantastic ornaments I can find. I think it will be hit every year.  Maybe one like this!  Gosh I loved that movie.

 

A Christmas Story Pink Bunny ornament

New Christmas Tradition: the elf on the shelf

I absolutely love Christmas traditions.  Every year when I was a little girl I looked more forward to traditions that anything else, even presents.  Some of my favorite traditions were decorating the Christmas tree, playing with the snowy house statues under the tree, and of course baking cookies. 

I cannot wait to start new traditions with my little one.  We are going to have so much fun.

My mom came across this great idea for a new tradition. She gave me The Elf on the Shelf while we were visiting for Thanksgiving.

It is this box that includes a book and an elf on the shelf.  Every night after Thanksgiving, you are supposed to read the story to your kid at bedtime.  Once they go to bed, put the elf somewhere in the house and your little one is supposed to wake up and find it the next day.

Kids are encouraged to talk to the elf, but cannot touch the elf.  If they do, the elf will lose its magical powers.  A.k.a:  Don't let your kids touch the elf or it will get all gross and you will have to throw it away. 
 Elf on a shelf can also help you, just like Christmas!
-Gets kids go to bed on time because they will be excited to get up to look for the elf
-Gets kids to wake up on time for school
-Teaches them how not to touch things they shouldn't touch
-Teaches them to be extra good

I also just love the idea of having Jackson get all excited about finding the elf in the house.  There is nothing like hearing my baby laugh or see his smile.  He is too young to do it now, but in a year or two, this will for sure be one of many traditions.

You can get Elf on the Shelf at Barnes & Noble, and as always, Amazon.  Retail price is around $30-$35.