On the Children's Shelf: Creating Holiday Traditions Through Books

This December, my goal has been to be more present. I often get into December, and stress over planning for the holidays takes over. I run out of time for the little things I want to do. This year, I'm trying to remind myself it will all get done, I am making massive lists to keep me somewhat organized, and I'm trying to be open to the idea that things might not get done, and that is okay.
 
I decided to surprise my girls one night this week by bringing our favorite part of a holiday book to life. I asked them to get into their pajamas and grab their favorite doll. They rushed downstairs and gathered around. We ate popcorn and read The Dolls' Christmas by Tasha Tudor aloud. They were in awe looking at the pictures of the dolls' beautiful doll house and their own doll Christmas tree. 
 
When we finished reading, and the bowl of popcorn was empty, they noticed there was something under the tree. While we couldn't go out into the forest to cut down a dolls' Christmas tree, there was one wrapped up and addressed to their beloved dolls. They carefully carried it up to their room and spent the rest of the night decorating their dolls' first tree.
 
I've always said I've wanted to climb inside all of Tasha Tudor's books and look around, soak up the magic, and live there for a little while. Although I couldn't technically climb into the pages of the book, I found a way to bring a little bit of the Tasha Tudor magic to my house for Christmas this year. The smiles in front of me were as big as the ones in the book. Somehow, it felt like we stepped back in time, and for a little while, we found a way to share in Tudor's magical world.
 
What traditions have you taken from your favorite books?
S
Submitted by Southbury, CT

Become a Local Voice in Your Community!

HamletHub invites you to contribute stories, events, and more to keep your neighbors informed and connected.

Read Next