From the overbearing amount of "Merry Christmas" cards in the card isle to the lack of Hanukkah movies and Hanukkah-themed daylongs, you can imagine how one might forget that any other holiday exists in December. With a dad that identifies as Jewish and a mom that identifies as Christian, I have always celebrated both Hanukkah and Christmas (but no, we don't get gifts for both). Coming from a family that finds playing dreidel by the Christmas tree or lighting the menorah surrounded by Santa Claus decorations the norm, here are some of the best things that come from celebrating both:

1. You get to call it Chrismukkah

Since the first night of Hanukkah falls on Christmas Eve, this year is kind of a big deal for us hybrids.

2. You expand your food palate

Matzoh ball soup and latkes always find their place on the table around this time and I'm not complaining.

3. You learn what the four sides of the Dreidel mean

And from then on, those gold coins you're given aren't just circular chocolates covered in gold foil--they now have monetary value.

4. You don't opt for what's considered "traditional"

We don't just decorate for one holiday; we like to mix it up.

5. You gain an appreciation for both

You look forward to lighting the candles just as much as ABC's (Freeform's?) 25 Days of Christmas marathon.

6. You learn what it means to be a family

Together, we find a way to make both work. Unlike food, presents, and decorations, family will always be there in the end--and they're the best thing you could ever ask for.