When I was a kid my brother and I used to spend about a week with Grandma leading up to Christmas. I think it was a good excuse to get rid of us while our parents went shopping for and/or wrapping our presents, but I always enjoyed going so I didn't even notice. I'm sure it was a nice break for my parents. XD They'd come back on Christmas Eve and then on Christmas Day after presents were exchanged among my immediate family, my extended family would come over and we'd to a secret santa exchange (we usually drew names at Thanksgiving). Looking back, it's kind of amazing because I know how hard it is now to get people together for the holidays. I'm thankful that I had that opportunity to spend time with them all back then.

Now that my Grandmother is gone and my extended family is getting older and more spread apart, I really only celebrate with my parents and brother each year. We eat dinner, exchange gifts, and play board games. Naps also happen often. XD