(his little hands in his pockets!!!)

Charlie’s outfit:
Striped Flannel Shirt, Fuzzy Camo Vest, Cargo Joggers, Sherpa High Top Sneakers, Speckle Scarf c/o Gymboree

Now that I have my own family, I’m realizing the importance of starting holiday traditions for my children. My fondest memories are spending Thanksgiving at my grandmother’s house in a tiny town in the middle of nowhere in Kansas or sitting on the stairs with my siblings on Christmas morning waiting to run down and see what Santa brought for us. Memories of being with the ones you love and celebrating the magic of the season.

This time of year is even more magical with Charlie. Watching his face light up when he sees holiday lights or seeing his excitement for a Christmas tree. It reminds you of how amazing it was to experience the holidays as a kid. It’s a feeling I wish I could bottle up year round! I’m especially excited for the holidays this year because I know that Charlie will actually have an understanding of what is going on. Whether it is baking cookies, making a gingerbread house, dancing to Christmas music, driving around to see our neighbor’s decorations or sipping hot chocolate by the fire – everything is going to feel that much more special experiencing it through his eyes. It’s the first year where I feel like our own family traditions will start to become memories for Charlie and I can’t wait for that. 

Since moving to the suburbs, we have been on a mission to explore all of the pretty places around us. Last weekend we visited Graue Mill to take in the fall foliage before it was gone. I bundled up Charlie in the cutest outfit from Gymboree which was perfect for the cooler temperatures. His little scarf, camouflage vest and leather high top sneakers kind of kill me. I’m always looking for cute winter outfits and Gymboree is filled with the most adorable separates for now through the holidays. His little flannel shirt would make the perfect Thanksgiving outfit (it is crazy soft) and I love that it is understated enough for the entire season of holiday festivities. I also picked up this cute Santa Bear sweater for a Christmas brunch with Santa! 

Seasoned mamas, what are your favorite holiday traditions to do with your kiddos? It is the best time to be a kid and I want to make sure Charlie enjoys it to the fullest!

In collaboration with Gymboree, all opinions are my own!