From Our She Talks CEO & Regional Directors
Dr. Julie Ducharme
Every Christmas Eve, our family gathers for a beloved tradition that started when my kids were small and has grown with us over the years. We cozy up together, turn on The Polar Express, and let the magic of the season unfold. During the iconic train scene, we pause to make steaming mugs of hot cocoa—extra marshmallows are a must! There’s something so special about sipping cocoa while the movie reminds us to believe in the magic of Christmas.
After the movie, we bundle up and head outside with a bag of carrots and a sprinkle of glitter. Together, we scatter them across the yard, ensuring that Santa’s reindeer can easily spot our house from the sky. It’s a whimsical way of saying, “We’re ready for you!” Even though my kids are now teenagers, they still adore this tradition—it’s a time to laugh, reminisce, and embrace the childlike wonder of the season.
Our Christmas Eve wouldn’t feel complete without this tradition, and I hope it’s something we’ll continue for years to come, perhaps one day with grandchildren who will sprinkle glitter and share cocoa alongside us.
Wendy Watson
One of our most cherished family traditions is gathering together to make Christmas cookies. It started with my mom, grandma, sister, and me, all working side by side in the kitchen, mixing dough, cutting out festive shapes, and decorating with sprinkles and icing. Over the years, this tradition has grown to include my nieces and nephew, adding even more joy and laughter to the experience. We bake cookies of all kinds—sugar cookies, my grandma’s famous chocolate cookies, peanut butter, and of course chocolate chip cookies—each one a sweet symbol of the love and connection we share as a family during the holidays.
Tia Cristy
My favorite family tradition is having the original five come together for food and fun while wearing the same pj’s. We play board games after dinner and presents while reminiscing childhood memories with my siblings. The day is full of love and blessings!
Erin Roberts
Every Christmas we make homemade Challah bread (Jewish braided bread). It’s been a part of my family tradition for as long as I can remember and I don’t even know why, we don’t have any Jewish ancestry! My daughter Van says braiding the bread is how she learned how to braid hair!
Shelby Jo Long
We have Christmas in my uncles barn! Either my mom’s family. She was the oldest of 12, so always a big party!
