Not Your Grandmother's Christmas Prep-2018

I love traditions and I grew up in a family that was full of them.  As I've adapted them for my family there have definitely been some revisions in the name of time and convenience.  Particularly given the fact my child is one and will not remember any of these first Christmases.  Fingers crossed as she gets older I will stop phoning some of this stuff in:

Tradition #1:  Gift Giving
Once upon a time we bundled up and hit the stores looking for that perfect gift.
Now?  100% of gifts were purchased online and delivered to our house.  Now that's Santa:).

Tradition #2:  Sending Christmas Cards
Once upon a time my mom would sit painstakingly handwriting updates and lovely messages to family and friends. 
Now?  Picture card from Snapfish complete with return addresses already printed on the envelope.

Tradition #3:  Christmas Tree
Once upon a time a family outing to the Christmas tree farm followed up by a trip to the Dairy Queen.
Now?  A four foot artificial Christmas tree placed on a counter so toddlers do not reek havoc upon it.

Tradition #4:  Baking
Once upon a time planning yummy homemade cookies, bars, and cakes for us and to share with others.  Lots of time (and dirty dishes!).
Now?  Those pre-made cookie dough squares.  Pan, bake, done!

Tradition #5:  Christmas Eve Church Service
Once upon a time getting dressed up and attending service on Christmas Eve.
Now?  Fortunately this one we got almost right since it is the most important:).  Last year we watched online.  This year our church had six services two of which they held on the 23rd.  Since we are going to J.T.'s mom's on Christmas eve we attended one of these.  Isabella wore a Christmas dress but J.T. and I wore jeans:).