It is December, our favorite month of the year. Not just because it’s my birthday but because we get to cuddle up on the couch with our puppies in front of the Christmas Decorations and the cozy fire. Over the past four years we have developed our own traditions that have become the highlight of our celebrations.

Our first tradition started in 2013. We had been together for 6 months and I wanted a gift that showcased the memories that were made over that time and allowed us to cherish the moments that started us on our journey together. So I made a Shutterfly photo book to act as a scrapbook album of the past 6 months and now it serves as a way to look back on the past year. She will receives her fourth book this year.

Another tradition we started back in 2013 was giving each other pajamas for Christmas. Over the years it has morphed from festive pajamas, to a family ensemble. I’ll just say that last years rocked and this years will be pretty awesome too! Please note how much Sebastian loves his reindeer costume.

This next tradition is fueled more by Pinterest than the desire to ‘create traditions.’ If you remember from last years post I wrap everyone’s presents with universal theme. 2013 was “Brown paper packages tied up with string.” 2014 was Brown Paper with a black and white photo of the gift receiver. 2015 was black paper with festive images hand drawn on each. 2016 is a little bit more colorful than years past and features Saint Nick’s belt buckle.

This year I added a new tradition. I have been wanting to find a Annual Ornament that we can purchase every year and eventually fill our tree with all the years of ornaments. Of course we can’t do anything “normal” so instead of a Santa Claus or a Snowman we choose this adorable Moose who now adorns our tree. Now to just make up for 2013, 2014, and 2015.

Merry Christmas from our family to yours.

Krystal, Madison, Sebastian & Harper