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Holiday

Christmas mor nin g the magic of

Holiday

Christmas morning the magic of

Holiday

Christmas morning the magic of

Holiday STAFF

Executive Publishers

Your Logo Here

Managing Editor

Suzanne Polk Fox

Writers

Ellie Gardner

Grant Parker

Nellie Palmer

Alyssa Ingram

Creative Team

Production & Design

Suzanne Fox

New Orleans, LA

Printed in the USA by Fox Print Services

The information contained in Holiday Moments and Memories is intended for educational purposes only. Jumpstart Publishing, LLC and publishers of Holiday Moments and Memories, do not endorse or promote any of the products or services described in the pages of Holiday Moments and Memories and the publishers do not verify the accuracy of any claims made in the editorial or advertisements contained in Holiday Moments and Memories. V5

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Christmas morning the magic of

By Grant Parker

Christmas morning holds a special kind of wonder. It’s a time when anticipation, tradition, and togetherness come together in a few hours that many families remember for years. Whether it starts with children racing down the hall or the quiet aroma of coffee before the house stirs, these moments feel timeless.

Anticipation at Dawn

The excitement begins long before the sun rises. Stockings hang ready, cookie crumbs remain from Santa’s visit, and the scent of pine fills the room. Children wake early, whispering and giggling as they sneak toward the tree. Parents may hope for a little more sleep, but most are swept up in the thrill, too. Even adults rediscover a bit

of childhood joy on this day. The sight of twinkling lights, the sound of carols, and the promise of family time make Christmas morning a pause from everyday life.

Traditions Old & New

Every family has its own rituals. Some open stockings first, while others unwrap gifts one by one to stretch the excitement. Many households include

special touches—reading a Christmas story, making a favorite breakfast, or attending morning church services. Newer traditions are finding a place too. Matching pajamas, family photos, or gratitude journals have become modern staples. Technology plays a role as well—video calls with distant loved ones and quick snapshots help preserve the magic for years to come.

The Morning Meal

Food is often at the center of Christmas morning. Families may prepare a hearty brunch of casseroles and pastries or keep it simple with hot cocoa and sweet rolls. Some recipes are so special they only appear once a year: peppermint pancakes, a loaf of holiday bread, or spiced cider simmering on the stove. Sharing a meal brings everyone together between the flurry of gift-giving and the day’s larger celebrations. It’s a reminder that presence matters more than presents.

A Feast for the Senses

Christmas morning is memorable because of its sensory details. The glow of the tree before sunrise, the rustle of wrapping

paper, and familiar music playing softly all set the tone. Scents of cinnamon, coffee, and evergreen fill the air, anchoring memories that last long after the toys are gone.

Around the World

Traditions vary across the globe. Italian families slice into panettone, while tamales are shared in Mexico. In the Philippines, morning celebrations follow nine days of dawn masses known as “Simbang Gabi.” Adding global flavors—a slice of German stollen or a mug of Mexican hot chocolate—can create meaningful new rituals.

Why It Matters

The true gift of Christmas morning isn’t found under the tree. It’s in the laughter,

the hugs, and the simple act of being together. Toys break and clothes are outgrown, but the memory of pajamas, cocoa, and family gathered by the tree endures.

Creating New Magic

Each year is a chance to honor traditions and begin new ones. Whether your morning is bustling or quiet, what makes it special is how uniquely it belongs to your family.

So pause amid the wrapping paper and music. Notice the smiles, savor the scents, and hold onto the joy. Because when the day is over, the memory of Christmas morning is the true treasure of the season.

By Grant Parker

THAT BRING US TOGETHER

Traditions THAT BRING US TOGETHER

HOW FAMILIES CREATE LASTING MEMORIES THROUGH HOLIDAY RITUALS, OLD AND NEW THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS ABOUT MORE THAN PRESENTS UNDER THE TREE. WHAT MAKES THIS TIME OF YEAR TRULY MEANINGFUL ARE THE RITUALS—BIG AND SMALL—THAT FAMILIES RETURN TO YEAR AFTER YEAR. TRADITIONS ANCHOR US, GIVE CHILDREN A SENSE OF BELONGING, AND TURN ORDINARY MOMENTS INTO MEMORIES THAT LAST A LIFETIME. WHETHER THEY’RE CENTURIES OLD OR NEWLY CREATED, THESE CUSTOMS ARE THE THREADS THAT WEAVE FAMILIES CLOSER TOGETHER.

The Comfort of Familiar Rituals

Many of us can recall traditions from our own childhood: hanging stockings on Christmas Eve, leaving cookies and milk for Santa, or gathering around the table for a special family meal. These moments create continuity across generations, reminding us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves.

For some families, the season doesn’t truly begin until they bring home the Christmas tree and decorate it together. Others look forward to attending a holiday service, baking a specific dessert, or singing carols in the neighborhood. These familiar activities offer comfort and joy, especially during stressful times.

Creating New Traditions

Traditions don’t always have to be passed down—they can start with a single idea. Matching pajamas, hot cocoa bars, or watching a holiday movie marathon have quickly become modern staples. Some families now include gratitude journals, where everyone writes down something they’re thankful for before opening gifts.

Technology has also given rise to new rituals. Video calls allow grandparents who live far away to join in gift exchanges, while photo collages and digital albums help capture and share memories instantly. Blending old customs with new ones allows families to celebrate in ways that reflect both their heritage and their present lives.

Blending Cultures and Generations

In today’s diverse world, many families combine traditions from different backgrounds. A household might serve Italian panettone for breakfast, Mexican tamales for dinner, and American sugar cookies for dessert—all in the same day. This blending of cultures creates a unique celebration and helps children connect to their family’s roots. Generational traditions are equally meaningful. Grandparents often pass down stories, recipes, or ornaments that carry family history. Younger family members may introduce new activities—like a Christmas scavenger hunt or themed holiday photos—that add fresh energy to the celebration. Together, these rituals bridge the gap between past and present.

Why Traditions Matter

At their core, traditions give families a sense of identity and belonging. They remind us of where we come from and create shared experiences that strengthen bonds. Long after the gifts are forgotten, it’s the laughter, smells, songs, and togetherness of these rituals that remain etched in our memories.

This holiday season, whether you’re baking Grandma’s cookies, starting a new ornament exchange, or simply pausing to share gratitude around the tree, remember that it’s these traditions—old and new— that truly bring us together. Running errands, wrapping presents and other holiday jobs can be more pleasant with company.

Make Your Own

Button

Ornaments

By Alyssa Ingram

SUPPLIES:

•Pre-cut cardboard shapes (trees, wreaths, bells, stars, or stockings)

•Acrylic paint in holiday colors (gold, green, red, silver, or white)

•Assorted buttons in different colors and sizes

•White craft glue or hot glue (with adult supervision)

•Hole punch

•Ribbon or string for hanging

•Permanent marker or pen for signing the back

INSTRUCTIONS:

Cut out holiday shapes from sturdy cardboard ahead of time. Popular choices include Christmas trees, bells, stars, and wreaths. Make sure each piece is large enough for little hands to decorate.

Have the kids paint their cardboard shapes in festive colors. Trees look great in green, bells in gold, wreaths in red and green, or you can mix and match with silver and white for a wintry theme. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on.

Spread out an assortment of colorful buttons. Encourage the kids to glue them onto their shapes in creative patterns—covering a whole tree with green buttons, using red ones as “ornaments,” or lining a wreath with mixed colors. There’s no right or wrong way to design; the more imagination, the better

Once the glue is dry, use a hole punch at the top of each ornament. Thread a ribbon or piece of string through the hole and tie it into a loop for hanging on the tree. Have fun and be creative!

ADENJOY MAKING BEESWAX CANDLES TO DECORATE YOUR HOME OR GIVE AS GIFTS. BEESWAX BURNS LONGER, DRIPS LESS AND SMELLS WONDERFUL, NATURALLY. THIS CRAFT IS SIMPLE ENOUGH FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO JOIN IN THE FUN.

Traditionalcottage pie

INGREDIENTS

•For the Beef Filling:

•2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

•1 large onion, finely chopped

•2 medium carrots, diced

•2 cloves garlic, minced

By Nellie Palmer

•1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 works well)

•2 tablespoons tomato paste

•2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

•1 cup beef stock

•1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

•1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)

•1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh)

•1 cup frozen peas

•Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

•2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed

•4 tablespoons butter

•½ cup warm milk (more if needed)

•Salt and black pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

 Place potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until forktender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well. Mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside .°

 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and garlic; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.

 Stir in tomato paste and flour; cook for 1 minute. Pour in beef stock and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to form a rich gravy. Add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in peas and remove from heat.

 Spoon the beef filling into a 9x13 baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly on top. Use a fork to create ridges in the potato layer (these will crisp up nicely in the oven).

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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YorkshirePudding TRADITIONAL

By Nellie Palmer

INGREDIENTS

Ingredients

•1 cup all-purpose flour

•1 cup whole milk

•3 large eggs

•½ teaspoon salt

•¼ cup beef drippings (or vegetable oil if not using drippings)

DIRECTIONS:

 In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt until smooth. The batter should be thin and lump-free. For best results, let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) at room temperature .°

 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a muffin tin or a 9x9 baking pan in the oven with about 1 teaspoon beef drippings (or oil) in each well (or ¼ cup if using one pan). Heat until the fat is very hot and just beginning to smoke.

 Carefully pour the batter into the hot fat, filling each well about halfway. Immediately return the pan to the oven.

 Bake for 20–25 minutes without opening the oven door. The puddings should rise high, turn golden brown, and have crisp edges with soft centers.

Remove from the pan and serve immediately with roast beef, gravy, or any hearty roast dinner.

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

HOLIDAY DÉCOR TRENDS COME AND GO, BUT ONE COLOR NEVER LOSES ITS SHINE:

Elegance Gold

Gold Elegance

TIMELESS DECORATING

By Ellie Gardner

USING GOLD AS YOUR BASE COLOR NOT ONLY CREATES A TIMELESS, ELEGANT FOUNDATION FOR YOUR SEASONAL DECORATING, BUT IT ALSO GIVES YOU THE FLEXIBILITY TO REFRESH YOUR LOOK YEAR AFTER YEAR BY SIMPLY CHANGING THE ACCENT COLORS. THE RESULT? A SPACE THAT FEELS BRAND NEW EACH SEASON WITHOUT REQUIRING A COMPLETE DÉCOR OVERHAUL.

Why Gold Works

Gold is more than just a color—it’s a mood. Its warm glow reflects light beautifully, adds instant sophistication, and pairs well with both traditional and contemporary styles. A gold foundation brings a cohesive look to your holiday decorating, wheth er you’re dressing up a mantel, a tree, or an entire room.

Best of all, investing in gold garlands, ornaments, rib bons, and candles saves money over time. Instead of buying a whole new set of décor each year, you can keep your base pieces and swap in different accent colors to create an entirely fresh look.

Change the Mood with Color Accents

Pairing gold with different accent colors can transform your holiday décor into entirely new moods. Soft shades like blush pink, pale mint, or lavender create a dreamy, whimsical look—imagine a tree dusted with pastel ornaments nestled among golden baubles, or a mantel trimmed in gold garland and delicate bows. For a more dramatic style, deep navy against gold sparkles lends a regal, almost celestial feel, while lighter blues soften the effect for a coastal or wintry vibe. If you prefer something timeless, green is gold’s natural partner; emerald ornaments and eucalyptus tucked into golden accents evoke a warm, nature-inspired atmosphere that never goes out of style. Wherever you choose to showcase these combinations, gold provides the perfect foundation—especially on the fireplace mantel, where garlands and metallic candles make the entire room glow.

Traditional RusticCakeCranberry

By Nellie Palmer

INGREDIENTS

•1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

•1 ½ cups granulated sugar

•3 large eggs

•1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

•2 cups all-purpose flour

•2 teaspoons baking powder

•½ teaspoon salt

•½ cup milk

•2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (if frozen, don’t thaw)

•2 tablespoons powdered sugar for sprinkling.

DIRECTIONS:

 Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan or a decorative bundt pan.°

 In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla.

 n a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to the butter mixture alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until combined.

 Gently fold cranberries into the batter with a spatula, reserving a small handful for the top.

 Spread batter evenly into the pan. Scatter reserved cranberries on top and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Bake 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

 Allow cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then remove sides of springform. Serve warm or at room temperature.

TRADITIONS TO START THIS YEAR

By Ellie Gardner

HOLIDAYS ARE BUILT ON TRADITIONS - THOSE LITTLE RITUALS THAT MAKE THE SEASON MEMORABLE YEAR AFTER YEAR.

Matching Pajamas

Few things say “together” quite like everyone in coordinated pajamas. Whether you go for classic plaid, whimsical patterns, or holiday characters, matching PJs set a playful tone for the morning. Kids love the novelty, parents love the photos, and years later, the pictures become treasured keepsakes. It’s an easy way to make everyone feel like part of the same team from the moment they wake up

Gratitude Notes

Before diving into presents, pause for a few minutes to reflect. Have each family member jot down one thing they’re grateful for this year on a slip of paper. Collect them in a jar or read them aloud around the tree. This simple practice helps shift the focus from what’s under the wrapping paper to what really matters—appreciation for the people and experiences that make life special.

Christmas Morning Scavenger Hunt

Turn gift-giving into an adventure with a short scavenger hunt. Hide small clues around the house that lead to a final surprise— like stockings, one special present, or even breakfast. It doesn’t have to be elaborate; a handful of rhyming notes or picture clues will delight children and add a burst of laughter to the morning. Parents can adapt the difficulty for different ages, making it fun for everyone.

Pancake Bar Breakfast

Skip the ordinary breakfast and turn the kitchen into a festive pancake bar. Set out toppings like whipped cream, chocolate chips, berries, sprinkles, and syrup so everyone can create their own holiday stack. It’s interactive, delicious, and ensures that the whole family gathers at the table before the day unfolds. The best part? This tradition doubles as a practical way to fuel up after all the early morning excitement.

Family Photo by the Tree

Amid the chaos of wrapping paper and new toys, take a moment to snap a family photo in front of the tree. Whether it’s formal with

everyone smiling or candid with cocoa mugs in hand, this simple snapshot becomes a cherished record of each year. Over time, you’ll have a timeline of how your family has grown and changed, captured in the glow of holiday lights.

Build a Gingerbread Village

Baking and decorating gingerbread houses is a classic holiday activity— but why stop at just one? Gather the family around the kitchen table to create a gingerbread village together. Each person can decorate their own house, or everyone can collaborate on a snowy town complete with candy pathways, gumdrop trees, and cookie fences. It’s a fun, messy, and creative way to

spend an afternoon, and the finished display becomes a centerpiece that feels uniquely yours.

Make It Your Own

Traditions don’t have to be complicated to be meaningful. The most important thing is choosing rituals that reflect your family’s personality and bring you joy. Whether it’s cozy pajamas, a note of gratitude, or pancakes piled high, these little traditions become the threads that stitch together Christmas memories—one magical morning at a time.