While they love celebrating with their Mercy Home family, some of our young people look forward to reconnecting with their parents, elders, and cousins.

“I like to relax with my family. We all go to my grandma’s house, and all my cousins and aunts and uncles are there,” said Taiveon. “My grandma usually cooks a special meal with baked macaroni and cheese.”

Deandre also enjoys visiting family.

“I go to my grandma’s house and she makes a big meal, kind of like a repeat of Thanksgiving. Her dressing is the best,” he said. “I love my grandma.”

For other young people, family Christmas traditions are about doing special activities together around Chicagoland.

“My family and I, we love going to the Museum of Science and Industry and going to the Christmas Around the World exhibit. Then we go to the Walnut Room restaurant at Macy’s. Sometimes we go to a glass-blowing studio where they make icicle ornaments.”

Some kids see Christmas break not only as a time to celebrate the holiday, but an opportunity to take advantage of outdoor activities and embrace winter…even if it’s not their favorite season.

“I love sledding, skiing, and snowboarding, even though I hate the cold and snow,” said Logan, an avid skateboarder during the warmer months. “I also love waking up early and opening presents with my dad.”

We are so thankful for our generous supporters who make Christmas at Mercy Home such a special time of year. What are your favorite Christmas traditions? Feel free to share in the comments below.