Make Your Winter Fun...Celebrate!

It is no secret we love to celebrate holidays in this house. I began celebrating these little holidays when I had three little ones five years old and under with a long, cold winter stretching out before us. It was a way to give them something to look forward to, as well as add some fun to our winter days. As with most things, it became a tradition we continue to this day. Why not start your own traditions this year?

Below are the upcoming holidays you can plan for and celebrate any way you choose! Remember, it doesn't have to be Pinterest inspired or expensive...just fun and festive and yummy! I get my supplies online from Party City. I have seen items on Oriental Trading Company and at Walmart as well. Often times I have leftover supplies, so I keep them in labeled Rubbermaid containers. Each January, I look and see if I need to replenish any for the upcoming holidays. Easy and fun! : ) So...mark your calendars and begin the planning. There are a lot of special days coming up!

Super Bowl

Sunday, February 1

Even if you are not a huge football fan, it is fun to watch the commercials! We usually make some fun snack food and a sheet cake to celebrate.

 Groundhog Day

Monday, February 2

Rise and shine! You can catch the real Punxutawney Phil around 7:00 Am EST. We also read these books, and use this adorable cookie cutter to make groundhog cookies. We like Molasses cookies with a mini chocolate chip for the eye. You can visit the official site here to find the cookie cutter as well as printable activity pages for the kids. : )

Valentine's Day

Saturday, February 14

What better reason to celebrate than Love? We make a nice meal of stuffed shells and garlic toast every year. Peyton also makes a special dessert to celebrate. I purchase the BEST chocolate hearts to place at each setting. I have done this since Madison was little, and the kids look forward to that little heart every year. You can find them here.

Mardi Gras

Tuesday, February 17

This is a fun one! We decorate the table with beads and masks and have a blast. Peyton and I make our version of a King Cake and we celebrate before Lent begins.

Chinese New Year

Thursday, February 19

What better excuse for Chinese Take Out? We love to decorate and eat and read about the Chinese new year traditions. Working on the chopsticks, though. : )

St. Patrick's Day

Tuesday, March 17

This is another fun one! We wear our green and gold and have a good Irish meal of Red Potatoes, Cabbage and Bacon. And of course, our traditional Lime Jello Poke Cake. : )

So there you go! Some special days to brighten your winter. Mark your calendars. And please post about your celebrations, too! : )