Every family has that tradition the one that somehow survives the group chat chaos, the work schedules, and the yearly “What PJs are we wearing?” debate.
For us, it’s matching pajamas, Secret Santa gifts, and a little photoshoot that never goes as planned… but always ends up perfect anyway
For us, it’s matching pajamas, Secret Santa gifts, and a little photoshoot that never goes as planned… but always ends up perfect anyway.
It all started two years ago. I remember thinking long-term because, let’s be honest, my titis and tios aren’t going to host forever. So I decided to create a little pre Christmas hangout a mini gathering with snacks, a theme, and our now-iconic cousin photoshoot.
The first year was a White Winter Wonderland: jeans, white sweaters, very Pinterest-coded.
The next year? Matching PJs and decorated props.
This year’s theme is jeans and black T-shirts that say:
“Nice, Naughty, No I’m Puerto Rican.”
Plus a decorated photo box for our shots our little reminder that no matter how much life changes, we still show up for each other (and for the camera).
Then, naturally, chaos breaks out. My brother and a few cousins start roasting each other, someone is laughing too hard to stand straight, snacks are disappearing, and everyone’s taking either a shot of coquito or cheering with soda. Meanwhile? Photos are somehow getting taken in the middle of all this noise. Peak cousin energy.
I’m still debating whether to post a collage or copy whatever’s going viral on social media (don’t judge me inspiration is inspiration).
What I love most is that this little tradition became our pre-party before the “real” Christmas parties. Everyone goes their separate ways on Christmas Day, but this moment this tiny slice of time together belongs to us.
I’m so grateful my cousins show up, make the effort, and embrace the chaos with me. I adore them all. And I hope this tradition keeps going for years messes, laughter, roasted jokes, coquito, and all.
Sessi. Dancing Corners 