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One of my most favorite holiday memories is actually a new tradition that was started by a friend of ours.
When we announced in early December 2006 that we would soon be embarking on our second interstate relocation by moving from Memphis, TN, to Nashua, NH, our friend, Carla, came up with a brilliant and sweet idea.
She didn't initially tell us of her plan, but just before Christmas, she stopped by our house with a wrapped gift.
It was kind of heavy and perfectly square.
I had no idea what it could be.
As we were opening it, she told us, "Because our kids won't be able to grow up together, I thought it would be nice for them to have this special tradition."
Under the ribbons and paper was a wooden Advent box, with special goodies hiding behind every door.
She had filled it for our Kate, and she wanted us to bring it to New Hampshire, fill it for Christmas 2007 and ship it back to her for her son to open.
This box has been traded 4 times now, and has seen the wear and tear of 2 relocations and 4 kids. In fact, if you look closely enough, you'll be able to see missing handles and "well-loved" doors.
We moved back to Memphis in August 2008 and into the neighborhood next to Carla. Even though we live close to one another again, the Advent box tradition continues. This year we are the ones uncovering a new treasure every morning. My girls look forward to it, and I can't wait for them to help me fill it for Carla's boys next Christmas.
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Isn't that a cute story? I love how they pass it back and forth every year! Looking for more from the HoHoHolidaySwap? Check out the linky below and don't forget to go read my post over at Keeper of the Penguins!
17 comments:
Woot! So excited for today!
What an adorable idea!!! I have a cousin who I'm very close to who has a 5 year old son. That would be such a neat thing to do with their family. I love this tradition!
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What a fabulous idea! THis is such a great tradition and it will keep your families connected if ever you are separated again!Your friend Carla sounds like a good one. Merry Christmas to you!
This is a super cool tradition. You have a really thoughtful friend and it's amazing that you get to live so close to hear again!
Oh, I love things like that!
I love things that last, activities that you just HAVE to have year after year.
And that Advent box is beautiful.
AND filled with treats!
Perfection!
Since my daughter's first advent calendar was overtaken by ants, I think this is a fine substitute and wonderful tradition. Hmmm, and with 12 months notice, I think I could put it together. LOVE!
I love this tradition and think I'm going to steal it! This would be so fun to do with our best friends who live far away. :)
Such a sweet idea!
I love the idea of a box. My folks always get the stupid candy ones for the kids. Well Hank took a stool and a bench while I was in the shower and cleaned out his and half of Maren's after the 1st day this year! I like the idea of little presents better, but I'll have to get padlocks :)
I love the idea of a box. My folks always get the stupid candy ones for the kids. Well Hank took a stool and a bench while I was in the shower and cleaned out his and half of Maren's after the 1st day this year! I like the idea of little presents better, but I'll have to get padlocks :)
I am stupidly jealous of Carla now. That's embarrassing.
That is one of the sweetest traditions I ever heard of.
How fun for all of the children :)
And Target dollar bins are the best place to find the things needed to fill the box!
What a fabulous tradition! I love the thought of having something to connect the kids. I live away from my very best friend. Now that she also has a little girl, I'm bummed that they won't be close like we were. Now you've got me thinking of fun things we could do!
I think I am going to coppy Missy@wonderfriend! I love this idea, I think it so sweet, and such a great way to keep in touch. Can you imagine being a little kid and looking forward to opening the newest box? Ohh I love it!
Great story Liz. :)
This is wonderful! I had a very close friend when our sons were babies, and she moved far away. I would have loved something like this for our sons to keep going, at least for a while!
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