Want to Truly Enjoy the Season? Make a Memory Jar

There’s something magical about December in Santa Monica. The palm trees glow with lights, shop windows sparkle, and neighbors smile a little more easily under the soft glow of the season. But even here, with the ocean breeze and the sunshine, the holidays have a way of rushing past us. The lists grow longer, the days grow shorter, and before we know it, December has turned into one big blur of errands, events, and expectations.

This year, what if – instead of chasing the perfect holiday – we focused on creating a meaningful one? The kind that fills the heart instead of the calendar.

Years ago, a friend introduced me to the idea of a Memory Jar. It was a simple, but powerful concept. At the start of each new year, she’d set out a jar and fill it with little reminders of joy – notes, momentos, photos, ticket stubs, anything that captured a meaningful moment. Then, at year’s end, she’d empty the jar and relive all those memories.

I loved the idea so much that I began doing it myself. Even after marriage and kids, the tradition stayed, and now it’s something my family looks forward to every year.

In the spirit of that practice, I’d like to invite you to create your own Memory Jar this December – a small, mindful way to slow the pace of the holidays and savor the moments that matter most.

How do you make a Memory Jar?

First, gather your supplies. You don’t need much – a jar (a mason jar, cookie jar, or even a repurposed candle jar), some paper, and a few pens. If you’re feeling crafty, decorate it with ribbon, seashells, or a little glitter.

Next, set your intention. Place the jar somewhere visible – your kitchen table, entryway, or next to your Christmas tree. Let it serve as a daily reminder to pause and notice what’s good.

Third, fill it up. Each evening, jot down a small joy from the day – something that made you smile, laugh, or feel grateful. Maybe it’s a walk along the beach at sunset, cocoa by the fire, a kind gesture from a friend, or a funny moment during dinner. If your memory comes in the form of an item – a photo, a ticket stub, a note, tuck that in, too.

Fourth, share the tradition. If you have children, invite them to add their memories or drawings. Couples can write notes to each other. Empty nesters might add reflections from visits or phone calls with loved ones. If you live alone, invite friends or neighbors to contribute when they stop by.

Finally, open it together. On Christmas Eve or New Year’s Day, gather around the jar, pour out the memories, and read them aloud. You’ll be amazed by how many bright moments filled your month.

It’s simple, yes, but that’s the beauty of it. In a season that can feel like a blur, this small ritual gives us a few quiet minutes to slow down, reflect, and reconnect.

There’s no right or wrong way to do it. Some people decorate their jar in classic reds and golds, others keep it plain and clear. Some slip in letters to themselves, or to loved ones they miss. What matters most is the practice of

noticing – and remembering.

So, this holiday season, take a few moments to reflect on your days, collect your memories, and share your blessings with the people around you. Wishing you all a peaceful, joy-filled Holiday Season. God bless!

By Cheryl Thode