Holiday Traditions: Trees, Elves and Toys!

Every family has holiday traditions. Some are passed down from generation to generation and others are created on the spot. We have been incorporating traditions that we grew up with and also creating our very own. With a blended family, it isn't easy to keep up. There are years where everyone can participate in something and years where there will only be one or two family members to keep traditions alive. Currently we have the following traditions:
1. We put up our tree the weekend after Thanksgiving. We respect the turkey around here and personally, I cannot handle more than one holiday at a time!

2. One of the kids always adds the tree topper. It was Gian's turn this year and he was thrilled when it finally came time to add the topper, which ended up lopsided, but that's perfectly fine!

3. Buddy the Elf returns during this weekend also!

4. The kids walk in the annual "Parade of the Elves" to welcome Santa to the City of South Miami! This is usually during the first weekend in December.

5.Toys and Gifts: Once the toy books arrive, the kids sit and write their lists to Santa. This is a long process as they want everything and we limit their lists to about 15 items. They don't get everything on the list but choosing from 15 is easier than choosing from 100.  JC and I get each child 7 gifts from their lists, usually one big ticket item (bike, tablet, etc), a board game, a video game and then random toys. Then the rest of the family picks from the list. My brother will always get Adrian a pair of Air Jordans, that's their thing and my dad will never get anything from the list. Traditions people!! But before Santa arrives with the gifts, the kids need to donate their old toys. They all take a day and go through all their stuff and donate whatever they no longer play with. Broken toys get thrown out and we make space for all the Christmas day craziness!
Traditions are important and we have many more to add to this list. This is just a preview! I know the kids will remember all of these as they grow up and have their own families! 
HOLIDAY TOY SHOPPING TIP!!
When it comes to toy shopping, I will shop online for toys and also in-store because of the in-store events. I love to attend in-store events at toy stores because I like to see how the toys work. This helps when it comes to spending lots of money on a toy.  Walmart is going to have in-store Toyland events where they will be showcasing all the hot holiday toys chosen by kids. For more information on Toyland event dates and locations, click here! 
P.S.: I will be attending the Toyland event on 12/13 at the Miami Walmart. If you are in the area, please stop by, I would love to see you there!
Disclosure: This post has been compensated by AMP Agency and its advertiser. However, all opinions and stories are mine alone!
What are your holiday traditions? What are your methods for gift-giving to children?