I don't own too many movies. There's just something in me that has a hard time purchasing a movie, because I know I really won't watch it over and over. I can maybe think of a hand full of movies that would fit this category. I was especially disappointed back in the VCR age when all the Christmas classics started being made available to the public. It was a travesty in my opinion. Why would you want to buy it and miss the anticipation of the countdown to Charlie Brown's Christmas? Really?!! Part of the excitement in the days of December is gathering with the family around the TV with freshly popped popcorn and watching the clock tick down until Burl Ives was singing about "Silver and Gold," or Jimmy Durante's gravely voice was preparing us for "Frosty." I'm not really into Santa (and I'm not against you if you are.) I'm not really even into ALL the Christmas movies. (but I sure do love the black and whites! And Elf. And ...I do NOT like claymation. There I said it! ~Don't judge.) But this isn't about that. It's about making fun memories.
While many days are filled with shopping, cleaning, decorating, party planning, programs, and other calendar arrangements, it's easy to get lost in the chaos and the busyness that comes with our American Christmas. Most of what I hear from people I run into these days is how "busy" they are. I've listened to people tell me about activities that they don't really want to go to, have to buy something to wear, all for people they don't really like. It's insane. I'm thinking, "Then why are you doing it?" Scripture calls it "vanity." The truth of the matter is we are all TOO busy! Why must we choose to fill our calendars to the full with so. much. activity?
I'm on a mission to plan for some nostalgic and fun times this year. One of these ways is in watching some of our favorite Christmas movies. I've got the DVR set for each week. We are having so much fun planning out our family Christmas movie nights. I'm even working on special foods/drinks to go with each one. Last week we watched "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas." (cartoon version, not Jim Carey. I'm sorry y'all. That one is so creepy.....oh, look! a squirrel!) Anyway, I had seen a recipe on Pinterest for Grinch Punch and thought how fun it would be to make this. I also found a new popcorn by Orville Redenbacher called "Lime and Salt." Can you say, "Yummo?" I made some good old fashioned movie theater butter popcorn for my weird normal family members as well. It ended up being such a fun night.
It wasn't about the specific movie. If you wanted to watch "The Nativity" or only Christ centered movies, then do that. I don't think you have to gather your family for a movie at all. You could circle up the kids and sing, "Kum Bah Ya" together, but hey if that's what you call fun, then you are very strange, do it! How do you define "fun"? It will look differently for all of us. How much of your December calendar is filled and what is it filled with? Take some TIME this month- make an intentional effort- to spend your time doing things you and your family enjoy. Make some memories! I would love to hear what you are doing! I will certainly be blogging about more of our fun times, I'm sure. I don't know specific ways that Jesus had fun, but He experienced every emotion being fully human and that would include laughter, joy, and happiness. I also know that there are several Scripture references to enjoying life, rejoicing, and laughter. (Ecc. 3:4, Prov. 17:22, Neh. 8:10 for a few) I especially love this one:
"There is nothing better for people than to eat and drink, and to find enjoyment in their work. I also perceived that this ability to find enjoyment comes from God. For no one can eat and drink or experience joy apart from Him." Ecc. 2:24-25
Here's to good times, family, and fun! Cheers!
If you are interested in making Grinch Punch, go here. Just a note: I used equal parts Hawaiian Punch kiwi drink and Sprite rather than the Jones apple soda.
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