Words by Sarah McDonald
1. Watching A Christmas Story
Ever since I was a kid, my mom would watch this movie every time she saw it playing on TV. This became the norm for both of us since I’d join her whenever she watched it. Even though I no longer live with her, I watch it every single year. A few times. Actually, I just watched it this past weekend! I think it’s safe to say I’ve seen this movie 100 times and it still makes me laugh every time.
2. Baking Cookies
When I use to work at Dairy Queen, my co-workers and I would do a cookie swap. We’d each make six to seven dozen cookies and then swap a dozen for a dozen. To say the least, I got hooked on baking. Every year I try to make something new and get better at it. Some years I take on more than I can chew, but it’s relaxing and usually the payoff is totally worth it!
3. Five Turkey Dinners
I’m not kidding. Every holiday that involves turkey dinners, I get five of them—usually in a row. This may not be considered a “normal” tradition but it’s become one because of the way my family (and boyfriend’s family) set these up. Between my mom, my dad, my boyfriend’s dad’s family, and his mom’s two family gatherings… Well you see where I am going with this. It would be nice if just once someone would make a ham.
4. Building a Gingerbread House
It’s one of the most fun things to do. I love going to Bulk Barn, picking up a kit and grabbing tons of my favourite candies to decorate it with. Getting the walls to stand up is difficult at first and takes patience, but after that it’s all about piling on as much goodies as I can fit. Plus just like baking, the payoff is delicious!
5. Touring the Neighbourhood
Every since I was about seven years old, my family would get together and on a mild evening, walk around the neighbourhood. We’d stroll along looking at everyone’s decorations for the holidays. After we’d get back home we’d talk about which house was our favourite. It’s a good way to get in the holiday spirit and burn off some of that turkey!
Photo credits
A Christmas Story still courtesy of reelz.com
Cookie photo courtesy of simplebites.net
Turkey photo courtesy of bajiroo.com
Gingerbread house photo by Sarah McDonald
Christmas house photo courtesy of blogto.com
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