Gather the family together

I'm cribbing these notes from of all things a Verizon ad, but I thought the sentiments were really nice.

"The holidays are the perfect time to reconnect with family and loved ones. Here are some tips to inspire you this season:"

Planning a family vacation? Avoid crowds by visiting major resorts or amusement parks now through Christmas.

If you have a little one in tow, remember the homes you visit may not be childproofed. Keep an eye out for danger spots.

Holidays can be stressful for kids, so keep their routine as consistent as possible.

Choose a night to drive around as a family looking at the light displays.

There's no better time than the holiday to start a family tradition of volunteering.

Give teachers, hairdressers and others homemade treats baked as a family.

Ask older members of the family to pass down favorite holiday recipes.

Encourage teens who enjoy photography to serve as the official family camera person.

Start a new family tradition inspired by your ancestry or heritage.

Share holiday stories and movies you loved as a child with your kids.

Challenge each member of your family to fill a bag full of items to give to charity (or clothes to donate).

Take the whole family to a holiday performance such as The Nutcracker.

Make a few handmade holiday cards (or gifts) this year as a family project.

Happy Holidays!