I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas this year! God, there’s nothing like celebrating such special moments with those closest to your heart, right? Spending time with them and creating memories that will always make you smile.

This was the first year since we moved to Jersey in 2012 that we got to celebrate and host Christmas at our house. And let me tell you… it was a success!! The whole family played a bunch of games, won prizes and ate yummy food.

This year, we decided to play secret Santa which was the best idea we’ve ever had. We all chose three gifts that we all wished for with a $50 limit and used an app that helped choose who our person was. Everyone got exactly what they wanted so there were no sad faces!

*Little tip for gift giving: unless it’s a truly thoughtful or handmade gift, it’s always best to try and buy a present that a person truly wants (if it’s reasonable, of course) because that’ll mean more to them than just a quick, last minute I-don’t-know-so-just-here-you-go, ya know?

Christmas magic starts in the heart.

Toni Sorenson

Our day started out with prepping the house, getting it all dolled up and festive for our guests and then we headed off to the Christmas church service which was absolutely amazing. As you can see, my favorite part was the lighting of the candles. There’s nothing more beautiful than getting together and celebrating the coming of our Lord and Savior.

He was the light of the world and now, it’s our chance to be the same. It’s what He wants and every year we do this tradition, I am reminded of that. For Christians, Christmas signifies more than just presents, great food and family time. We’re reminded of the greatest gift the world has been given and the Salvation we desperately needed. Whatever you believe in, just know this: YOU are the light of this world. Never forget it.

Creating memories will always make you smile

Well, after our amazing church service, we headed back home and waited for the fam jam to arrive! That’s when the fun began! Each family member had to buy a $30 gift and come up with a game for the adults to play. Once we got the kiddies out of the way with there games and gifts, the adults got to have a little fun too. Another important thing to remember is, yes, it’s important to make sure the kids have fun during the holiday, but just because you’re an adult, that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun and enjoy receiving gifts too!

All you have to do is put in the effort. Overall, it was an amazing time and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. It’s time to start prepping for the New Year and what’s ahead.