Dating is supposed to be fun. While Christians may not do everything that their secular counterparts do, that doesn’t mean we cannot enjoy life. I hope this list gives you some great ideas to explore new things, have meaningful conversations with your partner, and strengthen your love for one another. If you are married don’t stop dating! It is one of the single greatest contributing factors to marriage satisfaction.

My favorite piece of art isn’t a Monet, Renoir, or Michaelangelo. It isn’t priceless. My favorite work of art is a painting called, “Gold of Venice” by Marko Mavrovich. It is an impressionist style painting of the Venice canals. Most art critiques wouldn’t have it hanging on their walls but it is hanging on mine. You see there is an incredible story about how I came to own this beautiful painting.

The gift of hospitality comes very natural to some. My mother is one of the world’s greatest hosts. Her photo should be next to “The hostess with the mostess,” in the urban dictionary. Everytime she invites people over they leave feeling refreshed, relaxed, and wishing the party wouldn’t end. The interesting thing is her parties are not always the same and the guests cover a wide range of people. She hob-nobs with the elite and the common, the wealthy and the poor, the extroverts and the introverts. No matter who is sitting at her table I can almost guarantee they will leave her home feeling warm and cozy and hoping to get another invite soon. How does she do it?

The most fun family that I know is my own. I don’t say that to brag, but I love spending time with them, dreaming, vacationing, playing games, and exploring with them. They are my people. I’m grateful to be part of a family that pushes me to embrace having fun even when a tower of tasks are looming. Having a fun family requires intention. There are a few secrets of being a fun family that I have learned.

It’s Jesus’ BIRTHDAY! Have you ever paused and thought about why we GET gifts on Jesus’ birthday rather than giving him gifts? It dawned on me this year that I wanted to be more intentional about giving specific gifts to Jesus during this season. What do you get the King of kings? Here are a few ideas of birthday gifts to give Jesus at Christmas.

Christmas is about celebrating the birth of Christ. It’s Jesus’ birthday. The fact that we GET gifts on His birthday is a testimony to God’s grace and generosity. This year consider reducing the volume of gifts you give to three purposeful and intentional gifts. Maybe this year you could try and give Jesus three gifts too!