Some of Our Favorite Things!

Anyone else a little tired of the song “Rocking around the Christmas Tree”?

Yep, me too.

While I love the holiday vibe and Jesus’ name being proclaimed in the grocery store and even in my office, there are just some traditions around this holiday that can make me weary of the celebration.

This is why we’ve become selective about what Christmas music we listen to, the books we read, and the entertainment we consume. The options are plentiful, but the value is very diverse.

We’ve chosen to pair down our Christmas listening to songs that evoke worship in our hearts and renew our minds.

Such as these albums:

The Thrill of Hop – by Christy Nockels

A Worship Initiative Christmas by Shane and Shane (they have a few albums)

And a long-standing local favorite by Jon Thurlow – Christmas.

We value putting out some of our favorite Advent reading material- some of them are little-kid friendly, and others our teenagers are just getting now enjoying.

Our top picks are:

The Wonder of the Greatest Gift by Ann Voskamp

Unwrapping the Names of Jesus by Asheritah Ciuciu

Sarah and I have also been intentional to keep some *fun* in our Christmas- we get a local favorite, LaMar’s Donuts, right before we pick out our Christmas tree. Decking out the tree with our favorite lights and ornaments are a highlight for the whole family.

And of course, we often travel around the holidays, so we’ve come to enjoy a few movies to help with the long drive:

Home Alone – Ezra giggles tirelessly while watching this classic every time.

Elf – I mean, who can’t help but love Buddy!

And Sarah’s favorite is It’s a Wonderful Life, but it’s not yet a tradition for the whole family.

We hope some of our favorite things might be a reminder to enjoy your favorites! May your Christmas season be filled with more meaning and peace this year.

Join us in praying this prayer over your home.

Father, help us not forget the gift of your Son this season. As we get distracted pull our attention and focus back on you. Remind us to make space for you and listen for your Voice of love.