Christmas is certainly my favorite time of the year. The birth of Christ is on the forefront of people’s thoughts. Family gatherings often become priority. Mankind is more giving. The air is filled with excitement and laughter. Songs are sung that exalt our Most High God and speak of His gift to the world. And people’s hearts are warmed by a spirit of love, joy, and peace. Then you have the warm fires, hot chocolate, decorations, lights, falling snow, extraordinary food, friends, family, parties and celebrations.
We are still two months away from Christmas and I do not like celebrating too early. In fact, I have a “No Christmas music until after Thanksgiving!” rule in my home. However, the children and I watched Thomas Kindake’s Christmas Lodge this week. It was cold out so we lit a fire, popped some popcorn, and cuddled up in the living room together. We all enjoyed the movie and definitely were put in the Christmas mood. I was impressed with all the references to Jesus and faith in Him. The importance of family was certainly emphasized. And overall it was just a warm, feel-good movie. 
Synopsis from the website: Thomas Kinkade presents Christmas Lodge…a place where a heart-warming past and loving future meet for one remarkable group of people. During a weekend trip to the mountains, Mary (Erin Karpluk) finds herself at the now run-down lodge where she spent the holidays with her family growing up. She becomes determined to restore the building to its former glory. Inspired by her grandfather and guided by her grandmother in heaven, Mary throws herself into the project, and during the process finds herself drawn to Jack (Michael Shanks), a handsome man who loves the lodge as much as she does. Historically unlucky in love, this chance encounter allows Mary to renew her faith in life and discover her one true love. For an uplifting story about the importance of faith, family and the true holiday spirit, go to the Christmas Lodge.
If you are looking for a great Christmas film to watch with the family, check out the trailer here. I have one copy of the Christmas Lodge DVD to give away. Just leave comment telling me your favorite holiday tradition and I’ll draw a name on November 7th and have it sent to you.
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:11-14
Disclaimer: I received Christmas Lodge to review in exchange for an honest product review. I do not receive any other form of 
compensation for the reviews posted on this blog.
Kimberly Williams 
Our family Christmas tradition is a very nontraditional dinner of soup and rolls. From before my time (and I am 51 years old) my family has had Corn Chowder soup for all those who gather together. It may not always be on Christmas, we set a time when the most people are free to get together. For the last 15 to 20 years, we have migrated to Borsch instead of Corn Chowder.
After dinner and gifts, we play gift Bingo. Everyone brings a wrapped gift and whoever Bingos gets to choose a gift. One can choose an unopened gift or one already opened; however, we have to keep track of who has which gift. If we ask someone for their item (has to be asked for by name) and they no longer have that item, we forfeit our turn at choosing a gift. Just have to wait for our next Bingo!
This makes for a fun night, even for the kids. After all is said a done, we end up trading gifts or just giving them to the ones the gifts were intended for to begin with.
Karen, What a wonderful family tradition. Thanks for sharing! Blessings, Kimberly
Can’t wait to see it!
Hey there you Woman of Worth! I am getting very excited about the Holidays! For me it is a time of faith and family. My family doesn’t have a set tradition though. My husband has a big family that lives all over the US, so if some of us can get together it is always a blessing. This year though is going to be one of the best Christmas’ yet because it actually falls on a Sunday. What a joy it is to know that my family will be in the Lord’s house on Christmas morning!!! I wish it fell like that every year. = )