7 on the 7th: Christmas favorites

Y'all, the Christmas spirit is flowing in the Curtsinger household! As I mentioned last week, I have been so excited to unpack and decorate our home. I think it is safe to say the halls are decked with all things Christmas! We have over 10 inches of snow on the ground thanks to a winter storm that came in Thursday night. It just adds to the Christmasy atmosphere! Narrowing down my Christmas favorites to seven was difficult for me because I have so many! I absolutely adore this time of year- the family time, the celebration of Jesus' birth, the sparkling lights, the beautiful colors, the chance to reflect on the previous months, and the time to plan for a fresh year. This December is especially full of love as two of my best friends are getting married! My sweet sister Gracey is getting married on the 28th and I could not be happier for her and Will. Gracey was my Maid of Honor and I am blessed to stand beside her as her Matron of Honor. Three days later, I am so excited to ring in the New Year with my dear sister-friend Rhiannon, her fiancé Keith, and all of their loved ones. Rhi was one of my bridesmaids and I am so thankful to be one of hers! Love is definitely in the air this month and I love it! Without further adieu, here are my seven Christmas favorites:

1. Advent

This year, I am so excited (& possibly obsessed) about Advent. I know many people observe the time leading up to Christmas day with countdowns, Bible studies, videos, crafts with their children, and more. This is the first time for me to participate in and learn about Advent and I have loved it. I have been following along with the She Reads Truth Advent devotional and it is fabulous! These writers put so much time, love, and work into their plans and it is so evident! You will be so blessed by the readings, prayers, and hymns that accompany each reflection. I definitely recommend finding a way for you and your family to reflect on this special time and really celebrate the Reason for the season.

2. The Greatest Gift

This book could technically still be considered part of Advent, but it is a favorite all on its own. The premise of Ann Voskamp's second book is to retrace the lineage of Christ. Each day includes a reading, a beautifully written portion by Ann, reflection questions, a quote, and an idea for putting love into action. I cannot tell you how much I have enjoyed this book. Her ability to point out parallels between the Old and New Testaments is amazing. She makes you think about things in new, fresh, real ways. My friend Brittany and I joked about underlining and wanting to post every sentence-- we were also kind of serious. If you haven't started an Advent plan, it is not too late to begin reading this beautifully inspired and written book. 

3. The Twelve Days of Christmas

I have this infatuation with countdowns I believe. In addition to loving Advent, I also love the Twelve Days of Christmas. We have a tree in our room that is decorated with ornaments from the twelve days of Christmas. Last year I snagged a couple of pillows from Target that are red and gold with the the Twelve Days of Christmas written on them. I just think they're so fun! Of course the song and parodies of the song are fun as well! 

4. Christmas songs

I have come to learn that you either love or loathe Christmas songs. I can't imagine anything besides loving them but to each their own! I love them all-- Baby It's Cold Outside, Santa Baby, Joy to the World, Silent Night, O Holy Night, and more. Thanks to Pandora, we can listen to all kinds of Christmas carols and hymns! I also enjoy finding ways to incorporate meaningful lyrics into our decorations whether by prints, chalkboards, or canvases. 

5. Christmas movies
Just like Christmas songs, I love all Christmas movies! I grew up watching Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas (the cartoon one!). Elf, The Holiday, Christmas Vacation, and A Christmas Story are all favorites as well. I also can't turn down a good ol' classic Hallmark Christmas movie. It doesn't matter if I can predict the plot and ending, I still love them! The 25 Days of Christmas movies on ABC Family is just splendid in my opinion! 

6. Christmas red
Red is one of my favorite colors. I have always been drawn to its boldness and deepness. This time of year I love seeing it even more-- the poinsettias, the candy canes, the Christmas decor, and the fashion. Red nail polish always makes me think of my mom because her nails are almost always this color! One of our favorite polish colors this time of year is OPI's An Affair in Red Square. It is a deeper red that has just enough shimmer to make it festive.

7. Psalm 46:10
Be still and know that I am God.
This verse has always been one of my favorites. When preparing for this month, I knew I wanted to be intentional about focusing on the Reason for the season. I also knew that it would be a busy month with lots of Christmas parties, family get togethers, the weddings, and settling into our home. I want to take time to be still-- so far so good! I want to soak up each moment in His Presence, which is the greatest gift of all. I want to take the time to name each of the gifts He gives and live my thankfulness. I want to celebrate this season of Advent in the everyday moments. I want to be still and know Him.

I pray that you and your family have a wonderful holiday season!

I would love to hear about your Christmas favorites or traditions!

Have a blessed day!