Christmas is the season where everything feels more brighter, glorious, and truly more special. As someone who loves the holidays, I want to share some of my family’s traditions, tips for keeping the season stress-free, and even a cherished family recipe that’s been passed down through generations.
I come from a family of four, with three pets (a cat, dog, and bird) that keep things lively. Every year, Christmas becomes this beautiful mix of chaos and joy- exactly the way I love it. Whether I’m in the kitchen helping mom cook or putting up lights and decorations, the season fills me with a sense of togetherness and gratitude.
In our house, Christmas kicks off on November 1st when we transform the interior of our home into a holiday haven. Christmas trees, garlands, lights, and little festive touches in every corner. The exterior decorating comes next to hang lights with my dad and bring a little sparkle to our neighborhood. There’s nothing like stepping outside after dusk and seeing those twinkling lights against the night sky.
The heart of our traditions, though, is food. Cooking holiday dishes — Whether it’s baking, slow-roasting a special dish, or trying out a new recipe, the kitchen becomes a hub of laughter, music, and the occasional “Is it ready yet?” from my family. Gathering together - whether it’s something large or small feels like the ultimate way to celebrate the season.
While the holidays can be overwhelming at times, it's also a season of incredible joy and connection. By prioritizing what matters most, we can navigate the chaos and create unforgettable memories.
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tips to keep things simple and meaningful:
Start Early: Decorating in stages—spreads out the work and lets you enjoy the process. No need to tackle everything in one weekend!
Focus on What Matters: Not everything has to be picture-perfect. The best memories come from the messy, imperfect moments—like when our
pets inevitably knock an ornament off the tree.
Make a Plan: Whether it’s budgeting for gifts or organizing gatherings, having a plan keeps stress in check. Plus, you get to spend more time enjoying the season instead of scrambling last minute.
Take Time to Relax: The holidays can’t be all hustle. Curl up with a Christmas movie, sip hot cocoa, or take a walk to admire the lights. It’s these quiet moments that make the season feel magical.
If you have kids in your life- or are starting traditions for the future- Christmas is the perfect time to create memories they’ll carry forever. Some of my favorites include:
Make Homemade Ornaments: A crafting day with paints, glitter, and clear ornaments can be messy but so much fun. I loved doing this as a kid.
Bonus: these ornaments make great keepsakes for years to come.
Christmas Eve Surprises: Create a tradition of giving a small Christmas Eve box filled with pajamas, a storybook, or even some holiday-themed snacks. It sets the tone for a cozy night before the big day.
Baking Traditions: Bring the kids into the kitchen! Whether it’s decorating sugar cookies or making a family favorite, the laughter (and the food) make the best memories.
Holiday Storytime: Gather everyone around the tree, turn off the overhead lights, and read a favorite Christmas story. The glow of the tree lights makes it feel extra magical.
These traditions aren’t just for the kids- they’re for the adults too. There’s something deeply rewarding about passing down moments of joy that might someday be recreated with their own families.
Christmas Recipe
No Christmas in my family is complete without a Filipino Leche Flan. This creamy, caramel-topped dessert has been a staple at our holiday table for as long as I can remember. My grandmother taught us how to make it when I was younger, and now, every Christmas, we love to carry on the tradition.
Ingredients:
- 10 egg yolks
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sugar (for caramel)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sugar in a saucepan over low heat until it melts into a golden caramel. Pour the caramel into your flan mold and let it harden.
2. Whisk together the egg yolks, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla. Strain the mixture for smoothness.
3. Pour the custard over the caramel in the mold, cover with foil, and place it in a water bath.
4. Bake at 350°F for about 50 minutes, or until the flan sets.
5. Cool completely, then invert onto a plate to reveal the caramel topping.
This dessert is more than just a sweet treat. It’s a piece of my heritage and a connection to my grandmother’s love. Sharing it with my family and friends during Christmas is something that brings myself and others joy.
Christmas isn’t about having the biggest tree, the most elaborate decorations, or the fanciest gifts. It’s about spending time with family, love, celebrating the birth of Christ, and those little moments that remind us what really matters. Whether it’s through cooking, storytelling, or simply sitting around the Christmas tree, Christmas is the perfect time to pause and soak in the goodness around us.
Here’s to a season filled with joy, love, and traditions that warm the heart.
Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas!
Discover more about Leland Mergillano at www.Lelandmergillano.com.
Photographer: @Fortifiedtalent.
Article published in The Relatable Voice Magazine - December 2024.
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