christmas favorites.

Smell: Pine. My new Bella by Illume candle in Winter Berry (only $10 at Target; I couldn't find it online, but it would be well worth checking for at your local store). Orange and cloves.

Tradition: My favorite tradition Jordan and I started together as a family is going to the Anglican lessons and carols service on the first Sunday night in December. (You can listen to last year's service here.) It's a wonderful way to kick off the season, and I love that it's something Jordan and I began our first Christmas season as a married couple. Growing up, my family had lots of traditions, but the one I loved the most was cuddling up on the couch on Christmas Eve with my dad and brother while my dad read "Twas the Night Before Christmas." I understand that some believers aren't big fans of Santa -- I suppose they think his existence overshadows the true meaning of the season -- but I actually think he's a lovely reminder of the spirit of the holidays and of awe and wonder, mystery and faith. (My dad also read us this every year, and I think that must be where I get my appreciation for Santa and all he represents. "The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see.")

Flower: I prefer greenery this time of year. Greenery and fruit. Which is why I made this. It now sits beautifully atop our dining room table, smelling of citrus and pine.

Movie: Miracle on 34th Street, the original with Natalie Wood and Maureen O'Hara. I absolutely love that movie. Christmas movies make me happy, though, so if you're looking for some others, I also enjoy It's Wonderful Life, Elf, How the Grinch Stole Christmas (the original, please), White Christmas, and The Family Stone.

Hymn: "O Come All Ye Faithful." It's the hymn the Anglican service ends with every year, and the crescendo gives me chill bumps. I also love "O Holy Night," a favorite of my grandfather's. It tells the story of the Christ-child beautifully. ("I Celebrate the Day" by Relient K is also on repeat this time of year. The lyrics seem to say exactly what I'm feeling each December. "The first time that you opened your eyes, did you realize that you would be my Savior?")  

Memory: My Christmases get all mixed up, because honestly? They were all so undeservedly wonderful. I am one very, very blessed girl, and my family has always made the holidays so much fun. I loved going to see the live nativity every year, when we'd load up in the minivan and pick up pizza to eat on the drive through. I loved decorating the tree with Mannheim Steamroller blaring in the backgroud. Crawling into bed with my cousins to watch It's a Wonderful Life together. One of my most favorite recent memories was last year, when my brother and I gifted my parents with a painting of their home. They cried, and it was awesome. Giving meaningful gifts is part of what makes Christmas so special to me.

Easy gift: I make this cinnamon honey butter for our coworkers every year, and it always seems to please.

Sight: The lights hanging from the trees in downtown Tallahassee. They make everything magical.  

Dislikes: Dislikes? About Christmas? Fine, I guess I don't really love when people ruin Christmas songs by turning them into rap songs or by changing the words. I'm just a bit of a traditionalist when it comes to Christmas music. 

What are your favorite Christmas things? 

* Post inspired by Whitney from Elm Street Life