Introduction. Why rituals?

Holidays we didn't invent. "Everything" ; Easter ham ; The edible gift ritual (Valentine's day, Mother's day, Father's day) ; Fourth of July, aka cousinland ; Halloween launch party ; On Thanksgiving traditions ; How to avoid empty celebration syndrome ; The holiday party ; My dad's genius entertaining trick ; Christmas in Virginia ; Fancy-pants dinner (New Year's Eve)

Our family rituals. The walk to the farmer's market ; The one-on-one date ; Fruit first thing ; Pickling ; Lunch with Dad ; The sleepover breakfast ; Vacation rituals ; Miracle mashed potatoes ; Après ski

Birthdays. Abby's birthdaypalooza ; Andy's birthday breakfasts ; Jenny's mud cake ; Phoebe's ice cream cake ; Pick a country, any country ; A sane parent's guide to throwing an at-home birthday party

Family dinners. Did I ever tell you...? ; Sunday dinners ; Eating in front of the TV ; After-dinner rituals ; On signature dinners

In conclusion. Rituals and holidays organized by calendar.