Santa Mugs

Every family has their Christmas traditions.
When I was a child my mother always served hot cocoa in a Santa Mug on Christmas morning.

It's a tradition I chose to carry on with my own family.
I remember hunting the stores to find just the right kind of face, one that would make my children smile.
Even though they are grown now, we still drink from our Santa Mugs every Christmas morning. I often look up to see them smiling as they sip away on various flavors of cocoa.
When my daughter was married, we gave their newly formed family their own set of Santa Mugs as a present. My grandchildren now experience the continuing tradition.

Allison Woods shared why family traditions are so important
"Family traditions provide great value, and the value lasts far beyond the moment. The value of a tradition isn't in completing the ritual; the value comes from what it provides for those who participate.
First of all, traditions provide stability. Activities that are observed year in and year out become a means by which family members can build trust and security. Regardless of what else may happen, the traditions will not change. So much in our lives these days is temporary. Family traditions provide something for every person to hold on to and to rely upon."

Santa Mugs are a collectors item, often found on vintage sites.
The mugs made in the 1930's-1940's usually have Santa winking, or with his eyes closed.
No one is exactly sure why.
Maybe he is tired after a night of delivering presents around the world, and just needs to put his feet up and have a hot cup of cocoa.