Category: Christmas

31 Drawing Prompts for December

Are you ready for new drawing prompts for December? Make a cup of hot cocoa, grab your favorite drawing utensil, and start creating.

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  1. Self-portrait in a winter scene.
  2. Colorful
  3. Patterns
  4. Favorite person
  5. Pet
  6. Birds
  7. Water scene
  8. Nature scene
  9. Country scene
  10. City scene
  11. Historic location
  12. Travel
  13. Cold
  14. Favorite location
  15. Shoes
  16. Happiness
  17. Sadness
  18. Future
  19. Mittens & scarf
  20. Out a window
  21. Happy 1st day of Winter! (Create a winter scene)
  22. Ski
  23. Snowman
  24. Christmas Eve
  25. Merry Christmas!
  26. Family
  27. Friends
  28. Trees
  29. Artist’s choice
  30. Celebrations
  31. Welcoming 2023!

Have a creative month!

31 Photo Prompts for December

Are you ready for new photo prompts for December? Grab your camera and go!

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  1. Selfie
  2. Landscape
  3. Colorful
  4. On my mind
  5. Distance
  6. Miniature
  7. Out a window
  8. Candle
  9. Shapes
  10. Rule of 3
  11. Shadows
  12. Black & white
  13. Brightness
  14. Sparkling
  15. Lowest point
  16. Nature
  17. Sunrise/Sunset
  18. New
  19. Bokeh
  20. Reflective
  21. Winter
  22. Pattern
  23. Trees
  24. Christmas Eve!
  25. Merry Christmas!
  26. Enormous
  27. Low light
  28. Cozy
  29. Highest point
  30. Photographer’s choice
  31. Welcoming 2023

Have a great month!

75 Songs for the Christmas Season

Music is one of the joys of Christmas. Artists have been writing about the holiday season for decades. If you are looking to add some Christmas cheer to your holiday party or dinner, check out the following songs. (Be careful, you may find yourself singing out loud!)

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Please note: As an Amazon affiliate, I earn income from qualifying purchases.

  1. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” by Bing Crosby
  2. “Away in the Manger” by Nat King Cole
  3. “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams
  4. “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby
  5. “Sleigh Ride” by The Ronettes or “Sleigh Ride” by Ella Fitzgerald
  6. “What Christmas Means to Me” by Stevie Wonder
  7. “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” by Nat King Cole
  8. “Last Christmas (I Gave You My Heart)” by Wham!
  9. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey
  10. “How Many Kings” by Downhere
  11. “It’s True” by Sara Groves
  12. “Let it, Snow! Let it, Snow! Let it Snow” by Dean Martin
  13. “The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas to You)” by Nat King Cole
  14. “Home for the Holidays” by Perry Como
  15. “Christmas Time Is Here” by Vince Guaraldi Trio
  16. “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24” by Trans-Siberian Orchestra
  17. “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” by Frank Sinatra or “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” by Bruce Springsteen
  18. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Judy Garland
  19. “Frosty the Snowman” by Gene Autry or “Frosty the Snowman” by Jimmy Durante (Both are fun reeditions!)
  20. “Angels We Have Heard on High” by Ella Fitzgerald or “Angels We Have Heard on High” by Josh Groban & Brian McKnight
  21. “Let It Be Christmas” by Alan Jackson
  22. “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkston
  23. “Christmas Cookies” by George Strait
  24. “Little Saint Nick” by The Beach Boys
  25. “Christmas Time All Over Again” by            Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
  26. “Carol of the Bells/What Child is This?” by Point of Grace
  27. “Mele Kalikimaka (Hawaiian Christmas Song)” by Bing Crosby
  28. “Santa Baby” by Eartha Kitt
  29. “Blue Christmas” by Elvis Presley
  30. “Run, Rudolph, Run” by Chuck Berry
  31. “Santa Looked a Lot Like Daddy” by Garth Brooks
  32. “Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helms
  33. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee
  34. “Carol of the Bells” by Trans-Siberian Orchestra
  35. “The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late)”
  36. “Jingle Bells” by Ella Fitzgerald or “Jingle Bells” by Dean Martin (Both are great!)
  37. “Christmas, Baby Please Come Home” by Darlene Love
  38. “A Soldiers Silent Night” by Father Ted Berndt
  39. “Winter Wonderland” by Dean Martin
  40. “A Holly Jolly Christmas” by Burl Ives
  41. “Merry Christmas, Baby” by Otis Redding
  42. “Happy X-Mas (War is Over)” by John Lennon
  43. “Please Come Home for Christmas” by The Eagles
  44. “Where Are You Christmas” by Faith Hill
  45. “Feliz Navidad” by José Feliciano
  46. “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” by Dean Martin or “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” by Norah Jones and Willie Nelson
  47. “Merry Christmas Darling” by The Carpenters
  48. “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkston
  49. “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” by Jackson 5
  50. “Santa I’m Right Here” by Toby Keith
  51. “Peace On Earth/Little Drummer Boy” by David Bowie & Bing Crosby
  52. “Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney
  53. “Hard Candy Christmas” by Dolly Parton
  54. “Gold and Green” by Sugarland
  55. “Deck The Halls” by Mannheim Steamroller
  56. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid
  57. “Fairytale of New York” by The Pogues
  58. “We Need a Little Christmas” by Angela Lansbury
  59. “Believe” by Josh Groban
  60. “The First Noel” by Andy Williams
  61. “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” by Gayla Peevey
  62. “Joy to the World” by Aretha Franklin
  63. “O Come, All Ye Faithful” by Faith Hill
  64. “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” by Michael Bublé
  65. “Mary, Did You Know” by Kenny Rogers
  66. “Christmas Isn’t Canceled (Just You)” by Kelly Clarkson
  67. “When My Heart Finds Christmas” by Harry Connick Jr
  68. “Pretty Paper” by Willie Nelson
  69. “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” by Thurl Ravenscroft
  70. “Christmas Day at my House” by Patty Loveless
  71. “Snow” by Leslie Odom Jr.
  72. “Beautiful Star of Bethlehem” by The Judds
  73. “My Favorite Things” by Julie Andrews
  74. “Santa Claus Is Back In Town” by Elvis Presley
  75. “O Holy Night” by Céline Dion or “O Holy Night” by Nat King Cole (Both versions are wonderful.)

Is your favorite song on the list? Merry Christmas! Keep singing!

62 Photo Prompts for the Christmas Season

The Christmas season is finally here. Are you ready to enjoy every minute of the holiday celebrations? Capturing memories through photography is a perfect way to catch every festive moment. If you are looking for inspiration, check out the following photo prompts for the Christmas season.

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  1. Festive Selfie
  2. ‘Tis the Season
  3. Christmas Decor
  4. Red & Green
  5. Toyland
  6. In the Kitchen
  7. Leftovers
  8. Red & White
  9. The Magic of the Season
  10. Tree
  11. Lights
  12. Snow
  13. Silver & Gold
  14. Santa
  15. Reindeer
  16. Star
  17. Community
  18. Food
  19. Beverage
  20. Holiday Spirit
  21. Childhood
  22. Traditions
  23. Parade
  24. Cityscape
  25. Mail
  26. Believe
  27. Travel
  28. Mistletoe
  29. Storefront
  30. Candy Canes
  31. Reflection
  32. Advent
  33. Nutcracker
  34. Sweater
  35. Ribbons & Bows
  36. Wrapped with Love
  37. Stockings
  38. Pajamas
  39. Gifts
  40. Nativity
  41. Ornaments
  42. Family
  43. Friendship
  44. True Meaning of Christmas
  45. Angel
  46. Warmth
  47. Landscape
  48. Black & White
  49. Crafts
  50. Weather
  51. Cozy
  52. Homemade
  53. Milk & Cookies
  54. Blessings
  55. On the Tree
  56. Silent Night
  57. Peace
  58. Love
  59. Joy
  60. Photographer’s Choice
  61. Celebrations
  62. 2023

Ways to Support Small Business Saturday

Did you know November 26th  is Small Business Saturday? Small or independently owned businesses play an important role in the United States economy. Small businesses create local jobs and other opportunities within the community.

Owning a small business requires hard work and dedication. If you are searching for ways to help promote local restaurants, hair salons, flower shops, mechanics, contractors, or other small businesses during the holidays, consider the following ideas.

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  1. Know Your Community: Check out new local shops or revisit long-standing independent businesses. Join community groups on social media to learn about new or other small businesses in your neighborhood. Many small businesses use social media groups to promote sales or new products, especially during the holiday season.
  2. Write a Review: After visiting a local establishment, write a review of your experience. If you made a purchase, describe your product or service. If you did not buy anything, you still can leave a review. Describe the business. How did the employees greet you? Will you return? Provide honest feedback for others to learn about your experience.
  3. Follow On Social Media Platforms: Many stores use social media to promote new items or services being offered. If a local business has a social media presence, follow the page and share posts. Even if you did not find anything for yourself, share posts with your followers or friends. Perhaps a person on your social media page will find the perfect Christmas gift for a loved one.
  4. Subscribe to Newsletters: Small business owners share vital information about sales or upcoming events through weekly or monthly newsletters. Subscribing to a newsletter keeps you informed. The holiday season is a perfect opportunity to learn about discounted items for everyone on your Christmas list.
  5. Show Gratitude: At Christmas time, a “thank you” to employees or the owner is a great way to show appreciation for their presence in the community. Consider buying gift cards or certificates to give away to loved ones. If you are visiting a local restaurant or hair salon, tip well to show your gratitude. A small act of kindness goes a long way this time of year.

What is the best way to support Small Business Saturday? Visit one. Enjoy the different atmosphere only a small business can offer during the holiday season.

54 Activities for Your Christmas Season Bucket List

The Christmas season is almost here. Are you ready to join in the festive fun? Do you want to make this Christmas season memorable for you and your family? Start by making a Christmas season bucket list. Ask every family member to participate. If you need inspiration, check out the following ideas for your Christmas season bucket list.

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  1. Christmas photoshoot
  2. Send out Christmas cards to family and friends
  3. Go to a Christmas community concert (During the Christmas season, many community concerts are free or low cost. You and your family could attend more than one to get you into the holiday spirit).
  4. Volunteer
  5. Decorate your home
  6. Decorate a Christmas tree
  7. Write a letter to Santa (Yes, adults can do this too)
  8. Wear matching Christmas pajamas
  9. Bake and decorate Christmas cookies
  10. Host a family game night
  11. Drive around and look at Christmas decorations
  12. Watch Christmas movies
  13. Make a gingerbread house
  14. Put out cookies for Santa (Don’t forget the carrots for the reindeer)
  15. Hand out Christmas baskets full of homemade goodies
  16. Go caroling
  17. Create a Christmas playlist
  18. Make a YouTube or TikTok Christmas greeting
  19. Do random acts of kindness
  20. Make homemade hot cocoa
  21. Host an ugly Christmas sweater party
  22. Hang mistletoe
  23. Be a secret Santa
  24. Go sledding
  25. Host a traditional Christmas dinner
  26. Have a picnic under the Christmas tree
  27. Make hot cider
  28. Create a hot cocoa bar
  29. Go ice skating
  30. Go to a tree lighting ceremony
  31. Read ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
  32. Watch The Nutcracker
  33. Get your and your family’s photo taken with Santa
  34. Hang Christmas stockings
  35. Attend Christmas Eve Services
  36. Donate a wrapped toy
  37. Host a Christmas brunch
  38. Donate to an animal shelter or rescue
  39. Foster a pet over the holidays (Who knows, you may find your new best friend)
  40. Attend a Christmas parade
  41. Make paper snowflakes
  42. Read the Christmas story from the Bible
  43. Donate to a food bank
  44. Host a bonfire
  45. Set up the Nativity scene
  46. Host a Christmas tea
  47. Attend a live nativity
  48. Buy a new tree ornament for each family member
  49. Make Christmas crafts
  50. Attend various community Christmas programs and concerts (At this time of year, many activities are free, minimum fee or donation-based)
  51. Make a birthday cake for Jesus
  52. Make green and red paper chains
  53. Make homemade Christmas ornaments
  54. Pull-on a Christmas cracker

Have a wonderful Christmas season! Make memories!

Christmas in July: Start Planning

Christmas in July is a unique way to celebrate the seasonal holiday in the summer. Many people love the second chance to celebrate Christmas including singing carols, decorating a tree, and receiving a visit from Santa. Others use Christmas in July to start planning for the festive season in December.

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Planning for Christmas in July

If you are looking for ways to take advantage of the Christmas in July holiday season, check out the following.

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Please note: “As an Amazon affiliate, I earn income from qualifying purchases.”

  1. Make Lists (and More Lists): Use a notebook or your favorite app to start making lists for Christmas. Gift ideas, cards, and donation recipients are a great place to start with lists. Use your lists as part of the planning process for Christmas.
  2. Take Advantage of Sales: Christmas in July ads are on television, radio, social media, and print. Finding a deal is always a significant step toward finalizing your Christmas shopping lists.
  3. Shop Prime Days: Amazon hosts Prime Days in July. The two-day event, July 12-13 is a great way to start your holiday shopping. Purchase items early. The holiday season often brings shortages of favorite products.
  4. Shop Back-to-School:  In July, department stores begin filling shelves with back-to-school supplies. Markers, crayons, paint, paint brushes, paper, desk lamps, computers, and bags are generally on sale. The savings are perfect for buying early Christmas presents.
  5. Plan Tentative Events: Make a revisable schedule for the holiday season. Plan social gatherings, teas, dinners, and other festive fun. Creating a tentative schedule allows you to make lists for supplies, gifts, and more.

Christmas in July is a great way to get a head start on the holiday season. Have fun! Take advantage of the seasonal sales.  

23 Movies to Watch This Easter

Easter is almost here. Are you searching for grown-up Easter movies to watch? From classics to religious-themed, here are 23 movies to watch this Easter week.

Please note: “As an Amazon affiliate, I earn income from qualifying purchases.”

  1. I Can Only Imagine (2018)
  2. Easter Parade (1948)
  3. The Greatest Story Ever Told (1965)
  4. The Ten Commandments (1956)
  5. Pieces of Easter (2013)
  6. Risen (2016)
  7. Jesus of Nazareth (1977)
  8. Son of God (2014)
  9. Full of Grace (2014)
  10. The Passion of the Christ (2004)
  11. Hank & Mike (2008)
  12. Ben-Hur (1959)
  13. Easter Under Wraps
  14. Miss Potter (2006)
  15. Mary Magdalene
  16. Harvey (1950)
  17. Pieces of Easter (2013)
  18. I Still Believe
  19. Resurrection (2021)
  20. The Gospel of John
  21. 90 Minutes in Heaven (2015)
  22. The Young Messiah
  23. Do You Believe
  24. The Robe

Of course, you can always watch It’s the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown. Happy Easter!

Merry Christmas

I just want to take a moment and wish everyone (who celebrates) a Merry Christmas!

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I hope your day is filled with numerous blessings.

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Thank you for following my blog.

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God Bless! Rebecca

10 Last-Minute Christmas Gift Ideas

Are you looking for last-minute Christmas gift ideas? Use the Internet to find the best digital Christmas gift options to finish the rest of the shopping. Print your gift, slip the copy into a card, and you are done. Check out the following for last-minute Christmas gift ideas.

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  1. Gift Cards: Almost all major retailers offer gift card options. Also a gift card is a great way to purchase groceries for a person who may need a little extra help with food.
  2. Magazine Subscription: Magazine delivery can be in print or digital form. Your gift will last throughout the entire year.
  3. Subscription Box: From the Wizarding World to foods around the world, a subscription box has something for everyone. The boxes can be a one-time purchase or longer.
  4. Concert Tickets: Going to a concert is a great gift. The tickets will easily turn into a lasting memory.
  5. Movie Tickets: Popcorn, candy, and a pair of movie tickets are a perfect last minute Christmas gift.
  6. Theater Tickets to Live Performances: Tickets to a live performance is a great gift for the theater lover on your list.
  7. Restaurant Gift Certificates: Buy a meal at a local restaurant to be delivered. Or purchase a gift certificate to use later.
  8. On-Line Classes: Do you have a person on your list interested in photography, writing, cooking, or crafting? Purchase an online class for further inspiration.
  9. Car Related: Does someone on your list need a tune-up, oil change, or new tires? Purchase the car related maintenance to use later.
  10. Pay a Bill: Often the best way to help someone at Christmas is offering to a bill. The gesture is a great gift especially for someone on a limited budget.

Merry Christmas!