Holiday Traditions: Cherished Moments That Bring Us Together
The holiday season is a time for joy, reflection, and connection. For many of us, the magic lies in the holiday traditions we share with loved ones. Whether it’s the aroma of a beloved recipe, the excitement of gift-giving, or the laughter that fills a room during family games, traditions create a special thread that ties us to our past and builds memories for the future. At On Purpose Financial, we understand the importance of traditions, both in family and in finances. As we prepare for the holidays, we want to share some of our team’s cherished traditions, hoping they inspire you to reflect on or even create your own.
The Joy of Holiday Music
For Christal, Christmas Eve wouldn’t be complete without music. In her family, it’s a long-standing tradition to gather around with instruments in hand—guitars, violins, or even the family piano—and play songs together. The tradition isn’t just limited to the holidays; whenever the family reunites, they make time for a musical session. “For my mom, the holiday isn’t complete unless music is present,” Christal shares. The melodies, harmonies, and laughter that accompany each performance create a rhythm that carries through generations.
Gathering Around Grandmother’s Table
For Alex, the holidays are a time to go home—specifically, to his grandmother’s house. “It’s the one time of year when we all make it a point to gather,” he explains. The family comes from near and far, bringing their favorite dishes to contribute to a potluck feast. Alex’s signature dish is his famous red velvet cake, which he says is always a hit. It’s not just about the food, though; it’s about the comfort of being together in a place filled with warmth, stories, and love.
The Hunt for the Perfect Gift Experience
Will’s family had a unique tradition that turned gift-giving into an adventure. At his grandparents’ house, presents weren’t simply placed under the tree. Instead, a string was attached to a card or note, and the recipient would have to follow the string throughout the house to find the actual gift. “The chaos of all the grandkids racing to their presents was pure joy,” Will recalls. The real gift, he says, wasn’t what was waiting at the end of the string but the experience of the hunt and the memories it created.
British Flair and Crowning Moments
Melissa’s favorite tradition brings a bit of British holiday charm to the season. Each year, her mom introduces Christmas crackers—colorfully wrapped tubes that make a popping sound when pulled apart. Inside, there are small prizes, paper crowns, and jokes that are as cheesy as they are delightful. “We wear the crowns, play competitive games, and share groan-worthy jokes,” Melissa says. The crackers spark laughter and fun, a joyful reminder of her family’s heritage and the unique ways they celebrate together.
Traditions That Connect Us
Holiday traditions, whether simple or elaborate, remind us of what truly matters—spending time with those we love. They root us in our values and give us stories to share year after year. At On Purpose Financial, we’re here to help you preserve what’s most important, ensuring your traditions and legacies are protected for generations to come.
As you reflect on your family’s traditions this holiday season, we encourage you to cherish the memories they create. And who knows? You may even find a new tradition to add to the mix. Whether it’s music, food, laughter, or a bit of adventure, the best part of the holidays is sharing them with the people who matter most.
From all of us at On Purpose Financial—Will, Christal, Melissa, and Alex—happy holidays! May your traditions bring you joy and lasting memories this season.