Last Updated on December 9, 2025 by The Smetz Files
I’m a mom to teens and tweens, so it feels like holiday traditions are shifting. It’s just an indication of how our family is changing and growing.
This time of year we read a lot about holiday traditions and making it magical. Probably so much so that we groan thinking of adding one more thing to the ever growing to do list.
But this is not that kind of post. Nor is it a cure all to get all your holiday magic organized and wrapped in a stylish bow. That’s not my style!
Holidays Past
This year I’ve found myself reflecting on just how much our family has grown over the years.
When they were preschoolers our holiday traditions centered around going to the Polar Express to ride the train, sip hot chocolate, hear the story, and of course, see Santa.
We focused on hosting Pancakes a PJs, an annual event for our friends the last Saturday before Christmas, before everyone rushed off to celebrate with their families. Our home was filled the laughter of a million kids running around and parents toasting one final soirée before the big day. Santa always made an appearance to wild delight and squeals!
Holidays Present
These days the Polar Express trips and Pancakes and PJs invitations are no longer a priority. Now our kid friendly celebrations are hosting the youth group for one course of a progressive dinner.
Planning enough to feed middle schoolers is a bit more daunting than serving up pancakes fresh off the griddle!
Now their idea of holiday magic is game nights with friends, team parties, and cozying up for a Christmas movie.
Their wishlists are more intentional and tend to include specific items relevant to their sports and interests.
Their gift giving has been more intentional too. My tween is artsy and creative and she chose to paint pieces at a local studio as gifts to her grandparents.
Playing with cousins and baking cookies are still among their favorite ways to spend the holidays.
The youth at our church play a large role in leading services during Advent. It’s been incredible to see my two step into those leadership opportunities they’ve watched ‘the big kids’ do for years.
Constant Change
I guess while it feels like traditions are changing, in many ways they’re just maturing.
They still decorate their rooms with their individual Christmas trees. I imagine we’ll send those with them one day when they’re ready to decorate their future homes.
Perhaps it’s the season, or maybe it’s just part of being a midlife mom. But I like looking back at photos of Christmases past and seeing their chubby faces delighted with whatever toy was their favored that year.
I also really like who they’re becoming. And that’s been the best change to see.
Thanks for reading my simple musings!
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