by Stefanie Plum, Gather Partner Team
Member since:
February 19, 2008

Gather Holiday Chat – TRANSCRIPT – What is your most meaningful holiday tradition? Tell us and you could win 100 Gather Points™!

November 05, 2009 01:28 PM EST (Updated: November 12, 2009 04:25 PM EST)
views: 180 | comments: 192

Join us for a Gather Holiday Chat tonight at 10PM ET and spread the true meaning of the holidays by spending quality time with your favorite Gather members. We’ll have a new chat every Wednesday about various holiday topics. Tonight we’ll be discussing the following question:

What is your most meaningful holiday tradition?

Take some time off from the busiest time of year to enjoy quality discussions with your friends in each Gather Holiday Chat. You participate by submitting comments in the comment field below. If you can’t make it, please leave your comment for others to respond to. The chat will run from 10-11PM ET and five (5) Gather members will receive 100 Gather Points™ for participating. Winners will be announced in the comment thread the day after the chat.

Find meaning in the holidays this year, click here to join the Find Meaning group.
link to this page
Bookmark this post:
Facebook
Twitter
Delicious
Buzz
More

Comments: 192

Angel sent from God Secret Sisters Nov 5, 2009, 1:45pm EST
I ll try to make it !! ;D
Michelle S. Nov 5, 2009, 2:06pm EST
sounds like fun!!
Bridget ♥ Nov 5, 2009, 2:54pm EST
Chandler has wrestling practice tonight, so I'm not going to be able to be here for the chat.

Ever since my kids were born, I've always bought them a new pair of Christmas jammies to wear on Christmas Eve. They always look so cute on Christmas morning in their new jammies and it makes my Christmas morning present photos that much better!
Brooke S. Nov 5, 2009, 10:21pm EST
I love the pajama idea. I saw on a previous article where you saved a ton with Pajamagram... I would love to know more! :)
.* Sandi * Nov 5, 2009, 3:53pm EST
Our tradition has always been to give first
We start Christmas day by bringing food to some sick people.
We always have a gift or two also to bring to someone who needs cheering up.
Then we go to our firestation with a treat and card saying Thank you for helping.
We have done this for over 17 years.
We get home usually after 3 pm and that is when the kids open their gifts.
And not one of the 3 boys complain about waiting so long to open them.
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:04pm EST
Wonderful traditions you are giving to your boys Sandi.
sharon y. Nov 6, 2009, 12:33am EST
This is an awesome idea to instill in your children. It is wonderful that you have this tradition. Wish I would have thought about that when my children were young.
Cristina S. Nov 5, 2009, 4:14pm EST
For many years we had a tradition for January 6th, Three Kings Day. In the weeks before Christmas we looked around our neighborhood to find a baby we didn't already know. Then we thought about what that baby might need or want, and on the 6th, we would go to the house, bring our gift, maybe sing something, and leave...
DiAnA D. Nov 5, 2009, 4:16pm EST
since there is no way i'll be up at 10 i'll share here now.. When my kids were little i started a tradition that every Christmas Eve they could open one gift which was new pjs.. they are grown and live on their own.. but they still get that Christmas Eve gift of pjs! Traditions are so important to family.. Merry Christmas to all!!
Marian Meg Phillips Nov 5, 2009, 4:19pm EST
I might be a few minutes late, but it is a great idea. There are so many things we do in the holiday season. For the past few years, I've filled stockings for Boatsie's Boxes, sending gifts to the troops. At work we're signing cards to send over with our wishes for them and peace..
Beaker (just Beaker) Nov 5, 2009, 4:26pm EST
That's a great idea, Marian.
♠~Dnbuster~♠ ~. Nov 5, 2009, 4:31pm EST
I wont be able to make it tonight thats too late for me..

What is your most meaningful holiday tradition?

Our most meaningful holiday tadition is the charity my family and I run at Christmas time for kiddos that cant afford Christmas. Every year we collect, wrap and deliver gifts to those families just in time for Christmas. We have been doing it for the past 3 years and i think it means more to us as a family then it does to the famililes we help:)
Danielle P. Nov 5, 2009, 4:31pm EST
My most meaningful holiday tradition is spending time with my family. I make the same recipes for the holidays that were made by my late grandmother. We also go to church on Christmas Eve and when we come home Santa has already visited and then we open presents and sleep in on Christmas!!
RobbinLynn B. Nov 5, 2009, 5:11pm EST
I will try to make it also. Right now I can not Talk at all. I lost my voice completly.
I've got a bit of a headache,but I've been laying down on and off all day.
This does sound like fun. If I can stay up I will.
Lorelei aka:Ladymermaid Nov 5, 2009, 5:18pm EST
Hope you feel better soon Robbin - I'll toss around some sparkly magic get better quick dust for you.
RobbinLynn B. Nov 5, 2009, 5:41pm EST
Thank-You! That is sweet of you.
(Jasper,(Disciple for Christ. w. Nov 5, 2009, 5:20pm EST
My most memorable times is, when my wife was living, she was a wonderful southern Girl and really liked to cook.
So on Thanksgiving we would have the whole family, and any of their friends that they would bring along, and we would invite neighbors that didn't have any one to share the Holiday with.We would always have a wonderful time, with no alcohol was aloud.
Infinity M. Nov 5, 2009, 6:29pm EST
i luv 2 make cookies/cakes & gift them
Bridget ♥ Nov 5, 2009, 6:32pm EST
The kids have always made gifts to give as well, we've done Gifts in a Jar since Chandler was 1 1/2 years old. It's something we look forward to making together each and every year!

We love making them and people love getting them! plus, they are made with love!
Gessy D. Nov 5, 2009, 8:03pm EST
I want to be there tonight. I hope I don't fall asleep.
Amanda "middle of nowhere" C. Nov 5, 2009, 8:08pm EST
The most important tradition for me is family...And spending extra time together actually in the days after the holidays. Many relatives come in on Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Wednesday and Thursday are very busy. Friday and Saturday, though, things slow way down and we have time just to chat and eat leftovers, get out the old photo albums. Strange how looking back helps you catch up.
Dagmara H. Nov 5, 2009, 9:04pm EST
sounds like fun
Nancy S. Nov 5, 2009, 9:30pm EST
I may have to go pick up my grandson but I'll try to be here.
For both Thanksgiving and Christmas we have certain dishes that we only fix on these days. Since all the kids have homes of their own, we have Christmas at my house on Christmas eve. The girls surprise us with a carol and the whole family joins in on the chorus.
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 9:34pm EST
I have a tradition that began with my parents and my childhood. Ever since I could remember Santa Claus would always come on Christmas Eve while we were at Mass. When we would arrive home that evening, there would be presents under the tree and it was always a big celebration with presents and snack foods to eat while we were opening gifts. I have always loved opening gifts on Christmas Eve. This was a tradition that my parents gave to me, and that I have passed onto my family. My Mom and Dad are still able to come and celebrate with us and with their grandkids and it will always be a special time for me.
Also since the birth of our daughter, we celebrate her birthday on Christmas Day. We always let her know that she is special because she shares the same birthday as Jesus.
Angel sent from God Secret Sisters Nov 5, 2009, 9:48pm EST
Our tradition starts on Christmas Eve the whole family gets together and has Christmas Eve Dinner, give gifts, play card games.
Christmas Morning we either go to my sister's or my Mothers for Christmas breakfast.
Shannon W Nov 5, 2009, 9:56pm EST
Our immediate family tradition is to open gifts on Christmas eve. We spend the day together, go light looking and then open our stockings. It's a nice way for all of us to feel closer and then we have the rest of the family come over the next day.
Shannon W Nov 5, 2009, 9:58pm EST
I'm looking forward to Christmas this year.
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:01pm EST
Christmas for me every year was at my grand parents house on Christmas Eve. But since both of my grand parents have passed away. We go to my moms house on Christmas Eve now.
Shannon W Nov 5, 2009, 10:01pm EST
I love seeing the excitement the kids get when it's Christmas
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:02pm EST
I do to. There is nothing like watching your kids faces light up opening those gifts.
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:06pm EST
Yes, I like to see my kids faces beaming with excitement.
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:01pm EST
Hi everyone
Shannon W Nov 5, 2009, 10:01pm EST
Their joy is contagious
Shannon W Nov 5, 2009, 10:02pm EST
Hi sally and everyone
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:03pm EST
Hi Shannon
Beth G. Nov 5, 2009, 10:02pm EST
I think the most meaningful tradition is spending time with the extended family growing. Of course you saw your brother, sister, and parents every day, but it was a real treat to see your extended family during the holidays.
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:03pm EST
Hi Beth
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:07pm EST
Hi Beth. Yes, I always enjoy the holidays because it's the only time of you I get to see my brother and his wife. I really miss them sometimes.
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:08pm EST
I meant time of year
Shannon W Nov 5, 2009, 10:02pm EST
I like Bridget's idea of buying new Christmas PJ's. I may try it this year if I can squeeze it out of our budget.
Beth G. Nov 5, 2009, 10:03pm EST
Hi all, I hope everyone is having a great night!
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:08pm EST
Hi Beth. I'm about to fall asleep soon.
Christina L. Nov 5, 2009, 10:05pm EST
Hi everyone!
George Vreeland Hill . Nov 5, 2009, 10:05pm EST
Hi Gather friends.
Happy Holidays.
It is great to be here.
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:07pm EST
Hi George
George Vreeland Hill . Nov 5, 2009, 10:13pm EST
Hi Sally.
Christina L. Nov 5, 2009, 10:05pm EST
Our holiday tradition is just getting together with family and eating a good meal.
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:07pm EST
Hi Christina
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:09pm EST
Isn't there always good food when family gets together? That's the awesome part.
Christina L. Nov 5, 2009, 10:09pm EST
My family always has a feast and it's always great food. I love to eat!
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:12pm EST
I love to eat also!!
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:23pm EST
I love my moms baking when it comes to the holidays. She makes so much stuff. I love her pumpkin rolls and Chocolate rolls. She makes a big meal to go with her deserts.
Susan B. Nov 5, 2009, 10:06pm EST
What is your most meaningful holiday tradition? I love sitting with all the lights off except for the Christmas tree and just talking quietly about the good parts of our year, our life, our family.
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:07pm EST
Hi Susan
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:08pm EST
That is a nice way for the holidays Susan.
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:10pm EST
Hi Susan. I love sitting there with the Christmas tree lights too. It's just so soothing. Sometimes I have an urge to keep the tree up all winter long.
Brooke S. Nov 5, 2009, 10:19pm EST
Hi, Susan... I have a friend who put her tree up this week, because she felt like she needed some quiet reflection time... from talking to her, I know what you mean! :) Do you have your tree up yet?
Susan B. Nov 5, 2009, 10:43pm EST
We don't put it up before Thanksgiving :)
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:07pm EST
One year it was really nice. We were moving and we had 3 trees full of Christmas gifts for my 3 daughters. They never new it till we took them to the houses. It was one year we could spend the money and not worry about it. This year is a lot tougher.
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:10pm EST
Hi Sally G.

We are really pinching pennies this year too. But it always ends up being a nice Christmas when loved ones are together.
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:15pm EST
I agree it always lights up my holiday when we have the loved ones with us. Hi Monica
Christina L. Nov 5, 2009, 10:07pm EST
The meaning of Christmas to my family is to celebrate the birth of Christ.
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:09pm EST
I agree with you on that Christina.
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:12pm EST
Yes, a very important part of our family Christmas also.
Christina L. Nov 5, 2009, 10:09pm EST
We decorate our Christmas tree and usually buy gifts for immediate family members, but sometimes we don't exchange gifts, it just depends on everyone's financial state from year to year. We may have to cut out the gift giving this year with the economy the way it is.
James T. Nov 5, 2009, 10:09pm EST
No traditions these days...last five years I have spent them alone for Thanksgiving and Christmas as well as New Years other than three years back I spent New Years in ICU...

:O\
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:13pm EST
I am sorry to hear that James. I wish you the best for the holidays.
James T. Nov 6, 2009, 1:10am EST
Thank you Sally...I've gotten used to being alone after so many years of it now...the kids all have their own families and I live too far away to visit with so I usually work on art or photos...and another birthday goes by as well then...

:O)
karen h. Nov 5, 2009, 10:10pm EST
our is no matter where we are it is nmandaory for us to make it home
karen h. Nov 5, 2009, 10:11pm EST
hi every one we just got word my younger brother is fine he is at fort hood
Christina L. Nov 5, 2009, 10:12pm EST
That's good. I saw all about that on the news tonight. Scary!
Christina L. Nov 5, 2009, 10:11pm EST
I can't stay and chat very long tonight. Gotta go to bed early tonight since I have to get up earlier than usual tomorrow.
karen h. Nov 5, 2009, 10:12pm EST
we will really have some thing to be thankful for this year
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:12pm EST
At my moms house on Christmas Eve the family gets together and talks,eats dinner and opens gifts. We stay there for hours at my moms house. I love our get together like that.
George Vreeland Hill . Nov 5, 2009, 10:12pm EST
My most meaningful holiday tradition is gathering around the dining room table with friends and family.
We have a table that can sit 10 to 12 people and it has always been filled with laughter, hugs, sharing and love.
The food is plenty but the memories and future memories that each holiday brings are what that table is all about.
That is our tradition.
The dining room table.
The holidays mean many hours there.
It brings us together like no other time.
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:13pm EST
That sounds like a wonderful tradition George.
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:21pm EST
That sounds wonderful George.
karen h. Nov 5, 2009, 10:13pm EST
we are having a big family thanks giving this year I am just so happy he will still be able to come and am saddened by those who wont have much to celebrate
Brooke S. Nov 5, 2009, 10:13pm EST
Hi gather friends... I'm here.

My favorite tradition... is REALLY corny.
Brooke S. Nov 5, 2009, 10:15pm EST
My mom always buys reindeer antlers or elf hats or ornament head bobbers and has all 15 of her grandchildren put them on for pictures in front of the Christmas tree.
It's really corny, but at least one picture always turns out a hoot! We keep them all in one holiday album, so we can see how much the kids grow and change from year to year.
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:16pm EST
I think this is a great tradition and so much fun!!!
George Vreeland Hill . Nov 5, 2009, 10:21pm EST
Hi Brooke.
I love it.
Thank you for sharing that.
Brooke S. Nov 5, 2009, 10:22pm EST
Hi, George! Happy Holidays!!
Christina L. Nov 5, 2009, 10:14pm EST
This year has just flown by! I can't believe the holidays are almost here already!
Brooke S. Nov 5, 2009, 10:16pm EST
You're not kidding! I was walking through our Target the other day, noticing how much holiday stuff was out... and I griped to my husband that I felt pushed into the holidays. ... well, then he pointed out to me that it is November. I need to get on the ball! :)
Dania G. Nov 5, 2009, 10:20pm EST
I have a baby who is going to b a yr old on the 20th of nov..yr went by to fast.
Brooke S. Nov 5, 2009, 10:23pm EST
Hi, Dania! My daughter just turned 1 in June. I think it's true what they say, 'once you have children, your life starts zooming by a million miles a minute!'
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:15pm EST
Goodnight all. I had a tooth pulled yesterday that broke into three pieces and had to have it surgically removed. I'm in quite a bit of pain and need to get to bed. In a few days it will feel great.

Have a great weekend everybody.
Monica H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:17pm EST
Goodnight All.

Have a great chat!!!!!!!
Brooke S. Nov 5, 2009, 10:17pm EST
Good night, Monica! Here's wishing you a speedy recovery! Tooth pain is NO FUN!!! :(
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:19pm EST
Night Monica
Christina L. Nov 5, 2009, 10:19pm EST
I can relate to tooth pain. I have to get a root canal and a new bridge next month! That's my Christmas gift, LOL
karen h. Nov 5, 2009, 10:15pm EST
well i cant stay long were all meeting at my moms here shortyly she has been in a frantic mess you all have a great chat
Dania G. Nov 5, 2009, 10:16pm EST
Hello Ladies
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:18pm EST
Hi Dania
Gessy D. Nov 5, 2009, 10:20pm EST
Hi Dania
Gessy D. Nov 5, 2009, 10:17pm EST
Hello everyone.. I am a little late but here I am
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:19pm EST
Hi Gessy
Brooke S. Nov 5, 2009, 10:24pm EST
Hi, Gessy! :) Happy early Holidays!
Gessy D. Nov 5, 2009, 10:20pm EST
Where is everyone going... I just got here...Am I in the right chat room?
George Vreeland Hill . Nov 5, 2009, 10:20pm EST
Turkey is the main Thanksgiving meal, but there is so much more as most of us know.
Christmas means the best meats, fish, and everything that goes with them.
If money is tight, we pull together.
We make sure the table is full.
Everything of course, is served at the dining room table.
The tradition is to gather and sit around that table, and yes, the Christmas tree is at the corner of the room with candles in the window.
The table and the room is our holiday.
dreama e. Nov 5, 2009, 10:20pm EST
Hello all : )
My favorite tradition is my girls and I cooking dinner together and all the baking for days before the holiday
It is so enjoyable talking and learning together
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:25pm EST
Hi dreama. That sounds like fun.
Brooke S. Nov 5, 2009, 10:26pm EST
My mother-in-law was blessed with 2 boys, so she's never had a daughter to do her baking with... over the past few years we've begun our own little tradition of making candies & cookies for the holidays. We usually start around 6 in the morning, and we don't stop until we cannot stand up anymore... and last year, we just set up camp at the dining room table when we were that tired, to bag up the goodies!!
Baking can be so cathartic and so much fun!!! Way to build great memories, Dreama!
dreama e. Nov 5, 2009, 10:32pm EST
thank you
My daughters are 18 and 10, so I really get to enjoy watching them grow and learn
It has been such a pleasure watching my oldest teach my baby what I taught her
lena k. Nov 5, 2009, 10:22pm EST
we always have christmas at the older of the family members house now i am the older one and every one comes to my house my children my grandchildren and my niece my great niece and my two great nephews and now my great great nephew and my two great great nieces it is a great time
April H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:22pm EST
What is your most meaningful holiday tradition?

We have fondue on Christmas Eve, which is always special!
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:25pm EST
Hi April
Brooke S. Nov 5, 2009, 10:27pm EST
mmmm... fondue!!! What a great idea! Chocolate or cheese?
dreama e. Nov 5, 2009, 10:33pm EST
fondue is a really neat christmas eve tradition
Wouldn't it be neat to have both ;)
April H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:36pm EST
We actually have main course fondue (broth or oil) on Christmas Eve with the Inlaws, then on Christmas Day my husband and I (and now Little Miss) have cheese and chocolate fondue.
Dania G. Nov 5, 2009, 10:23pm EST
I try to give my kids new PJs on christmas...this yr presents are limited..put one of my girls remembered she get new PJs on christmas..I was touched she noticed.
dreama e. Nov 5, 2009, 10:34pm EST
my kids always get to open the new pjs on christmas eve so that they get to sleep in them that night and the pictures the next morning are cute
lena k. Nov 5, 2009, 10:23pm EST
i hope you all have a nice chat
Gessy D. Nov 5, 2009, 10:24pm EST
This Christmas, I am planning on visiting family members in Florida. I really need to get away. It has been too much for me this year.
Christina L. Nov 5, 2009, 10:24pm EST
Good night everyone! Gotta go now.
lena k. Nov 5, 2009, 10:25pm EST
i am working on here to get my grandson a game he wants for his xbox 360 i hope i make it to get it for him
Mary G. Nov 5, 2009, 10:25pm EST
We set up trees and Hallmark Ornaments each year. We enjoy listening to holiday music and go out to view other peoples decorations.
lena k. Nov 5, 2009, 10:25pm EST
its getting late so i will let you all go talk to everyone tomorrow
Gessy D. Nov 5, 2009, 10:26pm EST
I don't think I will be giving anything to anyone this year. Maybe I will make something or cook things as gifts.
Brooke S. Nov 5, 2009, 10:28pm EST
There are so many great sites out there for DIY gifts! I think many of my gifts are going to come from the heart and the home this year, too! :) Usually there's more thought and love in those things, anyway! :)
dreama e. Nov 5, 2009, 10:37pm EST
I enjoy homemade gifts much more than something that was bought
April H. Nov 5, 2009, 10:37pm EST
I wish more people did that - Christmas has become way too commercial!
sally g. Nov 5, 2009, 10:27pm EST
My daughters birthday is November 26th and she will be turning sweet 16 right on Thanksgiving Day.
Susan B. Nov 5, 2009, 10:42pm EST
That is cool :) My mom and I were both born on Thanksgiving - I'm the 22nd and she's the 26th