A Heartfelt Christmas Tradition: Family, Food, and the Spirit of Togetherness

Each memory we create becomes a thread in the tapestry of a holiday season well-loved and well-lived.

Dear Friends,

Christmas is around the corner, and with it comes a beautiful mix of memories, traditions, and family moments that bring us closer. In my family, gathering together on Christmas Day has always been a cherished tradition. On the 24th of December is our biggest celebration day, we make our way to church, and afterward, we settle down for a meaningful meal together—a tradition that makes us all feel connected and grateful.

I have to say, I've been really happy with how things have worked out since I moved to the UK. If I'm not traveling anywhere over the Christmas holidays, I get to celebrate Christmas the Latvian way on 24th of December, and then on 25th, I can enjoy the day the English way with my close friends here in the UK.

Growing up, I remember how excited (and maybe a bit impatient!) I felt waiting for Father Christmas. Presents weren’t opened until midnight, and the suspense was both wonderful and agonising! Back then, my grandpa or nana would dress up as Father Christmas, knocking on the door with a big bag, and as a child, I never suspected a thing. These days, we’ve changed things a bit for my kids’ sake. Now, Father Christmas “visits” the night before, leaving gifts under the tree, so we can open them after festive dinner on 24th evening. We even leave out a spare key so he can slip in quietly! Of course, my daughter always wonders how she never hears him, and I tell her he must have learned to jump down our (imaginary) chimney without a sound!

Then there’s the Christmas table. In Latvia, it’s tradition to have nine different dishes—a superstition that’s meant to ensure food on our table all year long. The king of the meal is a dish of grey peas, which my nana always insisted we eat first, so we “won’t have to cry” for the year, then following with roast and all the veggy side dishes and different salads. I love carrying this tradition forward in her honour, even though my dear nana and grandad are no longer with us. Their spirit lives on through these simple, meaningful customs.

We also make special meat pies shaped like little moons—my mum’s specialty. No one can make them quite like she does, with that motherly love that goes into each one. And for the past seven years, I’ve even started making my own gingerbread cookies from scratch, creating a recipe I’ll one day pass down to my children. These moments together mean the world to us, and I feel so lucky to keep these traditions alive.

There’s something magical in these little customs and in knowing they’ve been passed down through generations. Each dish, each ritual has its own story, and it makes the season feel full of love and connection.

A Gentle Reminder for the Season

I know that for some, this season can bring challenges, especially if you’re missing loved ones or facing difficult times. Traditions might feel different, or perhaps you’re creating new ones on your own. But remember, Christmas isn’t just about the decorations or the perfect meal; it’s about the love we share and the memories we create, no matter how simple they may be.

If you don’t have long-standing traditions, consider creating your own small rituals—perhaps lighting a candle for someone special, sharing a heartfelt meal with a friend, or even just taking a quiet moment to reflect on the things you’re grateful for.

Inspiration for Simple Holiday Joys

Here are a few simple ideas to bring warmth and connection, no matter your circumstances:

A Moment of Gratitude: Take a few minutes on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning to reflect on the people who bring light to your life, past and present.

A Call to Someone Special: If you can’t be with loved ones, a phone call or video chat can make all the difference.

A Quiet Tradition of Your Own: Start something new that’s meaningful to you, even if it’s as simple as a cup of tea by candlelight or a short walk to take in the holiday lights.

This season, I wish you moments of peace, love, and joy, however you choose to celebrate. And I’d love to hear about your own traditions or the little things that make this season special for you. Whether it’s a family recipe, a unique custom, or a cherished memory, feel free to share—it’s wonderful to learn about the different ways we find meaning in the holidays.

Thank you for reading, and may your days be filled with warmth, love, and a sense of togetherness.

With all my heart,

Eva.

Here's is a peek into the heart of past holiday seasons at my home-a little gallery filled with cherished moments!From hommade meat pies and the kids having a blast baking gingerbread cookies, to lively Monopoly games, and my love for dressing up the dinner table (I can never resist decorating everything beautifully!)Each photo holds a special memory,and I hope they inspire a bit of festive joy you too.