3 Christmas Traditions That Drive Me Crazy!!

I love Christmas as much as the next person, but these 3 traditions drive me crazy!!!

I'm like most parents out there. I want my kids to have a magical Christmas every year. We decorate gingerbread houses, put up the tree together, and read lots of Christmas stories. There are a few traditions however, that completely drive me up a wall!!

1. Elf on the Shelf: I have tried to avoid succumbing to this tradition for 2 years. My daughter begged and pleaded to get an elf on a shelf and I just feel like it's another ploy to get us to spend money. Finally this year we got the kiddos an Elf on the Shelf and it has been a full on disaster. "The Elf" always forgets to move during the night, so he ends up moving while the kids are at school and he doesn't hide in cool creative places, he just sits on the couch or lays on the table. Our kids think our Elf is totally lame!

2. Neighbor gifts: I love my neighbors, but I have 50,000 of them and where in the world do you stop? Someone always gets offended because "technically" they think they are your neighbor even though they live 2 blocks away. Plus, what can you get your neighbors that will really impress? I know I can't spend more than a $1 or $2 on my neighbors and you pretty much get junk in that price range.

3. White Elephant parties: I get it, they are "fun" but these gift are such a waste! No one gets anything they can actually use. I think a much better idea with both these parties and the neighbor gift situations is to get together and use the moment to do some good. Donate to a charity or even go to dinner with your co-workers, neighbors, and friends. Anything is better than bringing home a fart smelling candle!