What a gift we have in Jesus

Merry Christmas, friends! Today is Christmas Eve, and lately as Christmas day has been nearing, I've been overwhelmed with the reminder of the gift we have in Jesus. I feel like when I was younger I would hear people say that and just be like, "Oh yeah. I agree with that." but I never reached such a high gratitude for myself. This year it's felt different. 2025 was such a big growing year for me. I've never felt closer to Jesus. And you want to know the funny thing? I only want more. 

This year my thankfulness for Jesus has been so overwhelmingly great. I understand the depth of what He gave and what it would mean for humanity if Jesus didn't come. What is this love? This extravagant sacrifice for a sinful human race. It doesn't make sense. And that's why I keep using the word, "overwhelming". God is so good and I thank Him everyday for His love. Don't forget the mercy we have by His hand, my friend. Don't forget.

⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧⋆ ˚｡⋆Christmas Movies⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧⋆ ˚｡⋆

One of my favorite ways to spend a Christmas morning, afternoon, or night is watching a Christmas movie. Nothing really comes close to it. Nostalgia hits, and the cozy vibes start vibing. Here are some of my favorite/most nostalgic Christmas movies that I would definitely recommend getting on your watch-list.

White Christmas ➪ Absolute CLASSIC. This movie is a family-favorite and I don't think we have ever missed a year without watching it. The vibes are on-point. The singing, the romance, the snow. All that snow (iykyk). I love singing along with all the songs! Definitely recommend this one.  

A Christmas Carol ➪ I love story's that have so much more beneath the surface. This Christmas movie and book absolutely have an amazing lesson and can bring up so much conversation. This wonderful masterpiece that Charles Dickens created has such a compelling thrill and speaks to all audiences.

The Man who Invented Christmas ➪ Talk about compelling. My family and I watched this movie last night and I was reminded who much I love it. There aren't many movies like this one; getting a peak into author's minds. This movie is so well done. The acting is amazing, the story-telling and interaction that we get to see between author and characters is so smart. The actors and set were phenomenal. If you want a good movie, then this is one for you.

Christmas in Connecticut ➪ But wait. Why is this movie like, actually so entertaining. The premise of the movie is like the mother-of-Hallmark. I'm convinced the creator of Hallmark watched this movie as a child. The romance in this movie is actually hilarious and the chemistry is off-the charts. Love this one.

It's a Wonderful Life ➪ Another wonderful classic. This movie has a great storyline that jerks a tear. It's cozy, moving and really great holiday movie that values family and life. Definitely recommend watching this one. 

⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧⋆ ˚｡⋆Christmas Books⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧⋆ ˚｡⋆

I haven't read many Christmas books as I want to, but this year I really amped it up more. I'm hoping to read more very quickly before December is over and probably a little more into January. 

A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens ➪ I read this book a few years ago and I remember it being really good. I hope to re-read it at some point soon. Trust me, the writing is impeccable.     

Little Women, by Louis May Alcott ➪ While this book isn't during Christmas in the entirety of the book, it still begins and ends with the coziest Christmas vibes. I feel like reading this book during the Christmas season is perfect. This book is forever one of my favorites. 

Jingle Bell Jilt, by Mindy Burdbige Strunk ➪ Why was this book actually SO GOOD. I loved the plot of this book, though stereotypical and predictable, it was really well done. The dialogue felt so realistic, and the humor was amazing. Love love love. 

The Chalet Next Door, by Cassandra Joelle ➪ This is a cute, sweet, read-in-one-sitting kinda book. I think it's a really good option for a romance that is very quick and short. 

Merry Christmas!

-Ariana :)