However, it's a great big world out there and now, I want to broaden this idea to find out the wisdom and experiences from families in other countries and cultures :) Families Without Borders is thus a bi-monthly series where mums & dads around the world can introduce what's a "typical" childhood to them, family traditions, parenting tips, challenges growing up, and fun things to do in their country. It's always fascinating to get a fresh perspective on parenting and see where our similarities / differences lie. I'm sure there are some interesting lessons to be learnt from those raising families in different societies as well.
Much appreciation to all those who took the time to guest post for me, and for being open about their parenting ups and downs. If you have a story to share, please email me at sakuraharuka {at} live {dot} com.
*****
Growing up, my childhood was full of wonderful memories and I can thank my parents for that. We enjoyed spending time as a family and our holidays reflected that. Now that I have kids of my own, I’m happy to pass on those family traditions to me two kids. At 4 and 6 years old, my son and daughter are already experiencing a happy childhood, surrounded by family that loves them, similar to what I had growing up. Their personalities, giggles, sense of humor, and smiles shine through every day and I’m proud to know that it’s because of the positive influences we guide them with.
My kids definitely take after my side of the family and have the same laid back, caring, goofy sense of humor, and outlook on life as my family does. It’s refreshing to see such young children embrace that and I hope they continue to do so as they get older. With Christmas, they share the same passion that my family always has for this festive holiday. It’s not all about presents – not in our family. It’s about the people you love, the time you spend together and the fun festivities that garner lots of laughs and memories. My kids love helping me decorate, baking Christmas goodies, driving around to enjoy the lights in the city, the yearly Santa Claus Parade, the Holiday Train, family Christmas parties, and of course, hot chocolate! The simple things make us happy and what we enjoy most is giving to others and seeing their faces light up with joy. Christmas morning is full of excitement, and my family’s motto is “RIP & TEAR!”. That’s right, we rip and tear our wrapping paper and we’re not subtle about it! Wrapping paper flies all over and among it are the thoughtful gifts we’ve picked out for one another. A select few gifts are all we need, and I want them to grow up to appreciate what they have – not to “expect” things they want.
New Years is celebrated together, just the 4 of us. We like to spend that time together to ring in the New Year and appreciate the family we’ve created. It’s our special time to make some treats, drink some tasty beverages (even if we don’t drink alcohol!) and watch movies. It’s a nice, quiet evening to say farewell to the previous year and welcome the next together.
I can only hope that my kids will appreciate all of the family time we spend together and know that no matter what; love and people who care will always surround them. My hope is for them to pass on that same love to their own children someday. They will always be my greatest joy. My children are my heart and my heart will always beat for them.
*****
Brandi is a Canadian mom of two who blogs over at Yee Wittle Things – a family friendly blog that features reviews, giveaways, family content, and random musings. She loves chocolate, movies, books, and her family – not necessarily in that order! It's interesting to see that despite living in different countries and different cultures, both our families enjoy the same core things - spending time together. For the holidays it's not about going to the hottest parties or being seen with the most popular; it's about spending it with family and the people who love you, and you love back. The people that matter most :)
Read all Families Without Borders posts here.
12 comments:
I love hearing about other people's traditions and think it was really cool that you gave over the reigns for someone else to share for a day!
Great idea for a blog. There's nothing like sharing those childhood rituals with the world.
Such a great post. Our family loves to rip and tear presents open on Christmas as well.
We rip & tear too. My MIL can't handle it, she wants to save the pretty paper and bows (love her, but really! not a good plan). :)
And you're right, the family time is the most important part of any holiday. :)
I adore Brandi and am so happy to see her featured here!
We do the rip and tear too, which drives my mil nuts. She likes to save every little scrap and box that the gifts come in lol.
This is a really good tip especially to those fresh to
the blogosphere. Short but very accurate info… Thanks for sharing
this one. A must read article!
Very descriptive blog, I enjoyed that a lot.
Will there be a part 2?
There's definately a great deal to learn about this topic.
I love all the points you made.
I don't even know how I ended up here, but I thought this
post was great. I do not know who you are but certainly you are
going to a famous blogger if you are not already ;) Cheers!
Heya i am for the first time here. I found this board and I find It truly useful & it helped me out much.
I hope to give something back and aid others like you aided me.
This is a topic that's near to my heart... Best
wishes! Where are your contact details though?
Post a Comment