Merry Christmas

For to us a child is born,

    to us a son is given,

    and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called

    Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

    Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Of the greatness of his government and peace

    there will be no end.

He will reign on David’s throne

    and over his kingdom,

establishing and upholding it

    with justice and righteousness

    from that time on and forever.

The zeal of the Lord Almighty

    will accomplish this.

(Isaiah 9: 6-7)

Christmas celebrates one of the most wonderful occasions in the world - the birth of Jesus. It's a joyous time for the young and old alike. Every year I see our consumer-driven society be overtaken by greed and jealousy. Instead of "Merry Christmas" we hear "Happy Holidays" and people even take offense to displays of nativity scenes and the mentioning of Jesus's name. It saddens me to know what kind of world my son is growing up in, but it doesn't change the fact that Christmas is a reason for celebration. Jesus was born on this day to save this world from sin and I'm so glad to know that He's my Savior. 

I hope you take some time this Christmas to reflect on the true meaning of the season. Enjoying the moment, spending time with family, being grateful for everything we have and thanking God for the life we don't deserve is what it's all about. Have a great celebration and wonderful time! 

Merry Christmas!

Traditions

sweater: LOFT
vest: Land's End
hat: Target
cords: LOFT
boots: similar
bag: Ralph Lauren

The days leading up to Christmas are always filled with family. I love the traditions that we have like getting together and baking our favorite cookies. I'm in charge of desserts, as we spend Christmas Eve at my mom's and Christmas Day with my in-laws. This year I'm making something new which is kind of scary and exciting at the same time. I will make sure to post it on Instagram if it comes out the way it's supposed to. 

We are also trying to make our own traditions with Christmas morning breakfast and gift giving, I can't wait to see Jonathan's face when he sees his present because it's pretty stinking cool. 

What are your favorite Christmas traditions?
Also check my last post with some great ideas for last minute gifts (they will never know!)

xo, Anna

Last Minute Gifts That No One Will Know Were Last Minute

Last minute gifts are the most stressful part of Christmas but you can certainly pull it off. Here are a few ideas to those who have been waiting until the last day. Hope you find something special and don't stress too much about it. Pretty wrapping always helps the situation.

SPA CERTIFICATE: Everyone loves a little pampering and no matter if they're getting a full head to toe massage or just a mani/pedi, it will be appreciated. It's something just for that person to enjoy after stressful holiday season.

AMAZON PRIME SUBSCRIPTION: This is probably the best gift you will every give. Amazon Prime offers thousands of items with free two-day delivery to your door. We have it and I absolutely love it! Plus you get movies, music and games. I mean how can you beat that? 

MOVIE TICKETS: Going out to see movies at the theater is getting pretty expensive and those of us with mortgages and school loans can't really afford going out to see the latest flick. Sometimes it's nice to get out on a date or even go to a day time show by yourself. This will be one cool gift.

RESTAURANT CERTIFICATE: I consider these the best gifts of all. They save time when I have no time to cook, or when we want to go out for a special occasion. It's nice to know that we can just go out to dinner without braking the bank and have good time. Treat them to a nice meal and they will remember it for a long time. 

BEAUTY BOX SUBSCRIPTION: This is a great service that will send something new every month based on the characteristics you give them. The 3 month subscription to BirchBox is only $30. Couple of clicks and your friends will have a surprise in mail for three months. You can go all out and buy it for the whole year. 

xo, Anna