Christmas traditions

There are several Christmas traditions we have, some passed down through generations, and some David and I have come up with for our own family. There are two additional traditions I've read about several times over the past couple of years that I have wanted to start, but never seem to get around to it. They aren't hard, but it takes a little time and effort, and I'm always fresh out of those...haha. These are the two things I hope to add to our list NEXT Christmas...


“A very old Christmas eve tradition in Germany was to hide a pickle [ornament] deep in the branches of the family Christmas Tree. The parents hung the pickle last after all the other ornaments were in place. In the morning they knew the most observant child would receive an *extra gift from St. Nicholas. The first adult who finds the pickle traditionally gets good luck for the whole year.”

*I was thinking instead of an extra gift, they would be the first to open one of the gifts they already had

Also, the Elf on the Shelf book & elf...I want this! I don't know why I haven't up and ordered it, I want it every year. Oh well, again, next year!
Most of you probably know about this, and may already be doing it in your own home, here is a link if you don't...
Elf on the Shelf



So, do you have any Christmas Traditions you would like to share or that you would like to start doing with your family? Share! (All 5 of you readers should insert a comment here LOL)!

Merry Christmas...may it be blessed and bright!