Christmas has always been one of my favorite holidays—but experiencing it through the eyes of my toddler makes everything feel brand-new and magical. These days, our December nights look like cozy blankets, warm mugs of hot cocoa, twinkling lights, and Christmas movies humming quietly in the background. It’s a season that slows me down in the sweetest way.

There’s something about this time of year that blends joy, giving, thankfulness, and togetherness. And now that I’m navigating motherhood, I’ve been thinking a lot about the traditions I want to carry forward—simple, meaningful rituals that feel like home.

Here are the cozy Christmas traditions we’re holding close to our hearts as a young family.

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1. Stockings from “Santa”

Growing up, my mom always told us that Santa was in charge of the stockings—and waking up to see what had magically appeared inside was pure childhood wonder.

Now, I love continuing that gentle tradition with my own son. Stockings feel like the great equalizer. When kids ask, “What did Santa bring you?” the answers are sweet and simple instead of extravagant. It keeps the magic soft and fair.

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2. Christmas Eve at My Parents’ Home + Church (If Toddler Life Allows!)

Christmas Eve at my parents’ house is loud, joyful, slightly chaotic, and absolutely perfect. The kitchen is buzzing, the kids are running wild, and there’s so much laughter you can’t help but soak it in.

And if everything aligns (because… toddlers), we end the night at church. Celebrating Jesus on Christmas Eve adds such a grounding, peaceful moment in the midst of all the fun.

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3. A Slow, Homey Christmas Morning

One tradition I’m fiercely protective of: a slow Christmas morning at home.

No rushing.
No traveling.
No scrambling out the door.

Just pajamas, hot tea, unbrushed hair, and watching my toddler tear into his presents with pure, unfiltered joy. These are the moments that make my heart melt every single year.

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4. Family Christmas Photos—Dog Included

Every year I search for a Santa experience that allows dogs so our whole family can be in the picture.

It always ends in adorable chaos—wiggly toddler, confused dog, and my husband and I trying to smile—but those imperfect photos are usually my favorites.

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5. A Simple, Meaningful Gift-Giving Philosophy

Motherhood has shifted how I approach gifts. I lean toward fewer, more intentional items—things that spark creativity, comfort, or connection. For example, I love gifting experiences or adding to my son’s savings account. It keeps everything peaceful, mindful, and sweet.

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6. Our Cozy Christmas Movie & Music Tradition

If you’ve followed me for a while, you already know I’m a Harry Potter girl through and through. Is it technically a Christmas movie? Maybe not. Does it feel like pure nostalgic holiday magic? Absolutely. And yes… I’m starting my toddler young.

Our home is also filled with ambient Christmas sounds—the fireplace crackling channels on TV, YouTube ambience rooms, and all the cozy background noise that makes December feel extra warm.

And of course, Josh Groban and Michael Bublé have been on repeat. Instant Christmas vibes.

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7. A Quick Outdoor Walk (Weather Permitting!)

If Iowa weather behaves, we bundle up and take a short walk to look at lights and breathe in that crisp winter air.

My son is currently obsessed with making snow angels, and our dog thinks snow is the best thing ever—so it turns into a full-family adventure every time.

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8. The Sensory Magic of the Season

Some of my favorite holiday moments aren’t even official traditions—they’re little sensory snapshots I never want to forget:

✨ The smell of pine and cinnamon
✨ The sound of wrapping paper being torn open
✨ The cold morning air during the first dog walk
✨ The warm glow of the living room lights at night

These tiny moments become the memories we talk about long after the season ends.

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Creating Traditions That Feel Like Home

Motherhood has taught me that traditions don’t need to be elaborate or Pinterest-perfect—they just need to feel like us. These cozy rituals help us slow down, savor the moment, and give our children memories they’ll carry forever.

And honestly? That’s the real magic of Christmas. 🎄✨

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