Family Traditions for Christmas-On the Cheap Part III

In Part I of Family Traditions for Christmas-On the Cheap I covered why I think traditions are important and the three ways that folks come by their traditions, A-got them from their family B-consciously decided on a tradition and C-a chance occurrence or idea is repeated and become tradition. My first examples were my family’s tree trimming tradition (A & B), our ornament exchange (A) and our Advent calendar (B). In Part II I covered the Advent Wreath (A&B).

Today: Jesus’ Birthday.

My church growing up (St. John’s Episcopal, Bangor Me) we always did a birthday party for Jesus shortly before Christmas. It was a fun celebration for the kids with a birthday cake and Fr. Benson (our deacon-he always remained even though we went through a couple of priest growing up) reading a story, usually “The Littlest Angel”-which always has, and probably always will, make me cry. (sorry for the annoying music on the link. Just turn off the speakers and read the story)

Kids really identify with the idea of birthday parties! So this year I plan on starting a new family tradition (B). I want a birthday cake for Jesus to be part of our Christmas celebration. Either on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, we will have a homemade, Princess and Buddy decorated birthday cake for Jesus. If I’m really on top of it the kiddos and I will go out and buy a birthday present for Jesus and then donate it to charity.

Again, this is a tradition that can cost practically nothing. I can buy cake mix at Aldi’s for $.89 a box, and I can make homemade frosting from a bag of confectionary sugar and some milk (sugar is about $1.39 or something). I already have food coloring and various sprinkles and candles on hand. This is fun, meaningful (especially to the kids), doesn’t take too much time, and provides a tasty desert! What more could you ask for in a family tradition???