A Not-So-Ordinary Christmas

As our family gathered around this year to watch our favorite Christmas movie, Christmas with the Kranks, we laughed a little harder than we normally would on any other given year. That is because this Christmas we are following in the footsteps of the Kranks and boarding a cruise ship in Hawaii...on Christmas day!

Unlike the Kranks, we have not boycotted Christmas. We are not skipping the decorations or avoiding Christmas cheer in any way at all. And we certainly aren't bothering with the tanning and botox!

Although this Christmas may not be exactly like all the others, it has still held all the traditions that are most important to our family. We still gathered out entire family together and celebrated Christmas with a feast, gifts, and games. We still took pictures for a cute, creative Christmas card. Our tree this year is more beautiful than ever, and my sister and I love to sleep beside it on a pallet that we made from every pillow in the house. And just last night, my mom, dad, and I sat around the fire in the living room while playing cards and watching Miracle on 34th street.

It may be 80 degrees on Christmas day in Hawaii, but the most important traditions regarding Christmas have not changed. We still have family, friends, and a love for one another that makes this holiday season something to treasure forever. Most of all, we still have our Jesus, who came into our world to restore our relationship with Him. He never changes, and it is His life and love that make this Christmas the best Christmas ever.

Thank you, sweet Jesus, for showing us the great vastness of your love by entering into our world and showing us the way back to you. We love you and treasure you more than any of our Christmas traditions.