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Family traditions always seem to come out during the holidays. But we all have special rituals we do throughout the year together, too. Maybe it’s for birthdays, such as cupcakes for breakfast (yes, it’s a thing). Maybe you make a point to celebrate your kids’ first or last days of school in a unique way.

Christmas, however, brings its own magic to the mix of family traditions. These are activities that connect one generation to the next, keeping memories alive for decades.

As a family-owned business, Latham Seeds is a huge believer in making memories with loved ones all year long. Our traditions run deep, but – like yours – they shine especially bright this time of year.

One of our favorite traditions as a company is the annual Christmas potluck, which we just wrapped up earlier this week. This is when employees bring a favorite dish to pass, and we all share a meal together. We also reserve time on this day for every employee to put a custom-made ornament on the tree in our office lobby. The ornaments are etched with the first names of each Latham employee.

We also mix up the Christmas potluck fun with an annual Ugly Sweater contest. This brings out the most creative expressions for all of us to see! There’s always “that one” who tops them all.

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Sandie with her festive sweater!
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The Grinch made an appearance!
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John and Shannon decorating the tree.

Last year Quinten Bohlman won with a reindeer hat. In years’ past we’ve been delighted by other holiday cheer — like Rod Fesenmeyer’s memorable Donner costume!

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This reindeer hat is a fun memory!

If you can’t win the ugly sweater contest, you can certainly go for our Christmas trivia Kahoot game, which is exactly what Fred Wilz did to win a beautiful wreath.

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Fred new his trivia which landed him a wreath!

A holiday potluck wouldn’t be complete, of course, without food. Enjoy this recipe for sweet potato casserole — appropriately provided by Latham driver Steve Sweet.

May you and your family embrace all your holiday traditions this year, no matter how big or small!

Buttery Sweet Potato Casserole

Recipe by Steve Sweet

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (15 – 3/4 oz) sweet potatoes, drained and mashed
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Dash of salt

Topping

  • 1 cup coarsely crushed butter-flavored crackers (about 25 crackers)
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the first six ingredients. Transfer to a greased 8-in. square baking dish.

Combine the topping ingredients, sprinkle over sweet potato mixture.

Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Recipe Notes

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