While my husband and I are raising our kids Jewish (I’m Jewish, John isn’t), things aren’t always so straight forward.  That’s why when it comes to the winter holidays, we celebrate both!  Hanukkah with my family and Christmas with John’s.  Enter Christmukka (Christmas meets Hanukkah)!  Basically, it’s the best of both worlds, especially for my sons since they get twice as many hugs, kisses, delicious food AND gifts.

I remember Kyle’s first Christmukka when he was only two months old.  Hanukkah was celebrated at my parents house with all of the cousins.  We lit the candles, sang songs, enjoyed an amazing meal of latkes (potato pancakes) and sofganiot (jelly donuts) and tried to get group pictures (wishful thinking!).

His first Christmas was just as exciting, especially since he’s the first grandkid on John’s side of the family.  Every Christmas, we head up to John’s parents’ cottage for a few days where we exchange gifts, have a (kosher) turkey dinner, skate on the lake and enjoy some R&R.  Of course, with Kyle, we did all of the above but with a little less R&R. Nonetheless, it was exciting and Kyle got spoiled by his aunts, uncles and grandparents. 

While Kyle did receive gifts, it wasn’t until the following year that he was actually able to enjoy them.  At least, he was able to tear wrapping paper and sort stocking stuffers (i.e. take stuff out, put stuff in, repeat). 

Last year’s holiday celebrations were the most exciting yet!  Not only did Kyle eagerly anticipate his presents and was able to unwrap the gifts, but he was just as excited to help pass everyone else their gifts.  For Hanukkah, he also helped light the candles which was a first. AND….it was also my first year making latkes! 

This year brings in a new kind of excitement.  We’re a family of four now and this will be Ryan’s first Chrismukkah!  I’m sure Kyle will GLADLY help Ryan open up his gifts.

Giving is such a great part of both holidays. And with two young boys this isn’t an easy feat. I have to get gifts for the 8-days of Hanukkah, Christmas gifts, gifts for my nephews and nieces and our friends’ kids… all without breaking the bank!  With so much shopping to do it’s no surprise I love Sears.  Not only do they provide a variety of products for various ages and interests but they are also reasonably priced. My favourite part? You can shop from the comfort of your home!

This year, I know my son is hoping to receive a Hot Wheels Raceway and a Vtech Go! Go! SmartWheels Train station playset.  I know my niece would love the Barbie Dream House Dollhouse and my nephew has already told me many time he wants a spy gear kit. Check out the holiday’s hottest holiday toys at Sears here.

While the gifts are very important to the kids, my favourite part is spending quality time with my family and seeing the little ones grin from ear to ear as they open up their presents. What are you favourite gift-giving and family memories from the holidays? 

SEARS Giveaway Alert!

If you have as many people to shop for this holiday season as I do, head over to the Sears Facebook Page for an amazing contest! Every Friday until December 13th, Sears will be hosting a Friday Daily Facebook contest GIVEAWAY!They’ll be giving away one of their top and hottest holiday toys and all you have to do to enter is just leave a comment.

Disclosure: I am part of the Sears Mom Ambassador program with Mom
Central Canada and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with
this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.