Nov 26, 2024
Along with the super popular Elf on the Shelf, another one of the traditions I started with our family was a basket of Christmas-themed books placed under the tree. We would read from these books each night in December culminating with the story “The Night Before Christmas” by Clement Clarke Moore on Christmas Eve. As my children have gotten older, they still like to read their books by the lights on the tree and have learned to love reading year-round. In this month’s Hello Happy Mama article, Featured Moms 2024: “What Are You Reading?”, on page 30, Callie Collins revisits all of this year’s happy mamas to recount their favorite book recommendations. From books about Disney to self-help to the Bible, these mamas know what makes a good read. She’s also asking KCFM readers to send in their favorite book titles for KCFM’s 2025 list, “To Be Read.” Send your literary picks and the reason why your book should be added to the list to callie@kerncountyfamily.com.
This season as we hustle and bustle from store to store, KCFM asked its readers to pause and think about the real gifts of the season. In Callie Collin’s article, “Readers Respond,” she asks them, “What is one immaterial gift you hope to give and/or receive this year?” Overwhelmingly, the answers’ themes consisted of health, faith, family, togetherness, and gratefulness. To read all the thoughtful answers, turn to page 10.
In this month’s Humor at Home article, “Dog Math: The Only Relevant Math,” found EXCLUSIVELY in our digital magazine at Kerncountyfamily.com, Julie Willis writes about something I can relate to – when your kids’ math skills outpace your own. She reminisces about the good ‘ole days of fun and easy dog math scenarios because now her daughter’s homework consists of much more complex problems. But, I also agree with her that dog math is the best kind of math!
As the Holiday season comes with all kinds of parties and extravagances, the New Year is just around the corner where we shift to being more healthy. In Callie Collins’ article, “Five Ways to Start the New Year Sober,” on page 29, she writes how to keep a New Year resolution to curb alcohol use. Some of her tips include holding yourself accountable in writing and getting creative with non-alcoholic drinks. No matter what family traditions you participate in this season, the main part is to remember that they’re made of love.
Whether you’re reading your favorite book or eating a favorite holiday dish, these are the lifetime memories you’re making with friends and family. Take time to pause and enjoy the true meaning of the season.
Wishing you all the Happiest of all Holidays!
