Can you believe it is almost Christmas? Each year during the holiday season my daughter, her family and I all head to Seattle for a festive day on the town! I want to share our day with you to inspire you to add a new holiday tradition for your family too. Traditions are what create the nostalgia that we all love and crave. They set our family apart and forever imprint our uniqueness on the hearts of our children. Traditions don't have to cost a lot, be extravagant or take days to plan or implement. They just have to be meaningful and repeat over time so that when you and your children look back, you all can say...remember when? The traditions you set will be the ones your children try to replicate in their families as time passes.
Our expedition usually starts at the Act Theater to watch the live production of The Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Wonder Excursions is a local homeschool organization run by a wonderful local homeschool mom, that coordinates group ticket sales for fine art productions. She does a fabulous job making performing arts accessible to all. We have gotten our tickets with her group for many years and love that they help so many families make a holiday day in Seattle possible, although we almost missed the window of opportunity this year!
ADAM'S PEANUT BUTTER CUP FUDGE RIPPLE CHEESECAKE…rich but delicious!
After the 90 minute show, we head on over to The Cheesecake Factory for lunch. It is a little pricey but since we only go here once a year, we feel the splurge is worth it! We try to share cheesecake pieces after lunch so we can sample as many different delectable flavors as possible!
Did you know there is a gingerbread village each year in downtown Seattle at the Grand Sheraton Hotel that is sponsored by JDRF? JDRF is an organization that is on the quest to help cure Type 1 diabetes. This event is free to the public but a $5 donation is gladly accepted to help support research. We have seen some fantastic creations over the years with themes ranging from Harry Potter and Star Wars to the Grinch. The creative spirit of the artists is awe-inspiring and we always go home wanting to try their techniques in our own creations. This year the theme was “Elf Life” and the creators did not disappoint. The attention to detail is outstanding!
As we wrap up our downtown tour, we head home with smiles talking about how the play was different than last year. What actors were the same or different, and if they were different it brings up a conversation of who played the part better. Each year without fail, someone asks, did you jump when the ghost of Marley came out? The answer is still yes.
Holidays are for making memories that fill your heart with love. Traditions help you to feel like you are a part of something and have a special belonging. Do you have a tradition that has been handed down in your family that the holiday season wouldn't be complete without?
All of us at Cedar Hill Academy wish you and your family a very merry Christmas and happy, happy New Year!
