We laugh, we cry, we remember, we enjoy. All of the above are effects of our traditions. These are the things we keep in our repertoire of memories. These are the things we want to last.

Now, the types of traditions are endless. There are meaningful ones; ones that resemble inside jokes; religious ones; ones that were started generations back; and some just plain silly ones. I'm going to focus on one type today, but it encompasses many aspects of our other traditions. This type is one that we can hopefully all enjoy. It involves...food.

Stay with me. There are still deeper meanings in the ideas below. But adding some food here and there makes for a fun experience. All of the traditions below (they are not all mine, but I'm thinking some of them might start trickling into my collection...) involve candy of some sort, but could definitely be substituted for something else if you so desire.

Elf shoes
Inspired by the Dutch, my family did this growing up. The week before Christmas, we would set out one shoe by the tree, and in the morning would wake up to find a small treat in it from the elves! We loved the anticipation.

Popcorn and a tape
We always grab a three-flavored popcorn tin from the grocery store and listen to "A Christmas Carol" narrarated by Patrick Stewart. This brings us into the holiday spirit: A reminder that we can change and become better people because of Christmas and the agency we have to make our choices.

Elf Breakfast
My sister heard this from someone and then shared it with me. This tradition has to do with the movie ELF starring Will Ferrell. Their family eats an "elf-worthy breakfast", so mainly candy (if you haven't seen the movie, Buddy the Elf eats pop tarts, candy, spaghetti with syrup, and any other sweets he can find). Then they pop in the movie and watch it as a family.

Christmas Eve Candy Plate
This is simple, yet fun. Set out a plate on Christmas Eve of all the Christmas candies you've made this season. It is up for grabs for the family to eat as everyone laughs and bonds, plays games, sings, or reads Luke 2.

A Movie of Lights
Grab some theatre-worthy food and go around the neighborhood spotting out Christmas lights. If you can, try to find a house where the music is timed and is in synchronization with the lights. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!

If you have traditions that you do and love, please share! Many of us want to expand our repertoire and we would love to hear the fun, sweet, or silly things you do.