that is a nice tradition you have...I have one similar, I invite a special friend or two, and light a fire outside (weather permitting), and read a special poem... it was way too cold for that this year (5') so I did as you suggested and lit candles and the fireplace...I am now waiting for the sun
here is the poem, it is now on you tube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGTILQ7yYV4
or you might want to C&P it from here: scroll down to "A Fire for You"
http://www.wingmakers.com/poetrychamber24.html