Favorite Things Friday #9

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I’m already late on what is SUPPOSED to be this morning’s Favorite Things Friday, so let’s just cut to the chase on what I’m loving this week, shall we?!

1. Because of Bethlehem by Max Lucado

I’ve been trying really hard to not get swept up in the hustle and bustle this Christmas season, and looking for ways to focus on the real reason of this season. This book was exactly what I needed. I first saw it at Hobby Lobby back in the fall, and knew it was just the perfect thing to read this December. It’s so easy to get wrapped up (ha! would you check out that pun – totally didn’t do that intentionally, I swear!) in all the gifts and hectic schedules, but goodness, it’s been such a wonderful reminder every night when I curl up with this book and remind myself of the hope and wonder and true gift of Christmas. This book is a blessing.

2. Traditions

One of the things I love the most about this season is how steeped in tradition it is. The Cookie Days at Mom’s we’ve done for as long as I can remember, that I now bring my girls to, the Polar Express Night where we turn our family room into a cozy movie theater of pillows and blankets and cookies and hot cocoa…the times we spend with loved ones this time of year is so rich with memories. Love grows in these traditions. They help shape us and give us memories that last a lifetime. There’s joy and family and belonging in them…and they wrap us up like a big hug when we think back on them throughout the years.

Wishing you a weekend of peace and love, and maybe even celebrating some traditions too!

XO