We went to a cookie and Santa party that one of my sisters-in-law hosted at her house.  This is the second year that she has done this and the kids love getting to hang out with their cousins.  This year, we also got to hang out with family that was in from New Mexico, so it was even more fun!  We enjoyed visiting with family and loving on cousins that we only get to see a couple times a year. 

We arrived a little early so that we could help set up some before the majority of the kids arrived.  So that my sister-in-law could go to the basement and help Santa get settled in, I helped finish baking a bunch of sugar cookies that the kids could decorate.  Soon the kids arrived and after playing for a while, went downstairs to see Santa.  When they were done, they were allowed to come upstairs and start decorating their cookies.  They had so much fun decorating and eating their cookies! 

After that, all the kids went back downstairs to play.  This is a fairly new tradition that the kids seem to really love.  Any time spent with family is a great time, though, especially when there is family that we miss being able to see frequently, visiting.  After all the friends left, we sat visiting while the cousins all played, well into the night.  We didn’t get home until around midnight.  Even though it was late, it was an enjoyable evening for everyone, my kids were very disappointed about not getting to stay the night with their cousins though. 

It was fun being able to watch the cousins all play and get reacquainted and to be able to catch up, and reminisce about high school years, because one of my sister-in-laws was also my best friend in high school.  We talked about old classmates and teachers that we remember.  I hope that when they move again (my brother-in-law is in the Air Force) they will be closer and we can see them more frequently.  One of my nieces, Teagan, would love to be able to help out with Lorianna.  Last time they were here, she saw Lorianna have a seizure and it really affected her.  She would happily help out with her anytime.  She is a very loving and compassionate young lady.  She is also one of Hailie’s best cousin friends.  Hailie would happily go with them any time if we would allow her to.  

The cookie and Santa party was a successful and fun time and the added benefit of being able to visit with family made for an enjoyable evening.  If you are looking for new family traditions, this is one that you might consider trying out with your family and friends.  If you need more ideas for family fun holiday traditions, you can visit my Christmas Traditions page.