Favorite Christmas Movies

With Halloween over with, the holiday season can now officially start. That's right folks; we no longer wait until after Thanksgiving to begin preparing for Christmas. And with the decorations, recipes, rolls of gift wrap, and everything else, also comes the Christmas movies. I may not be able to tie the perfect bow, but if anyone needs help with movie selections, I'm there. I've compiled a list of my four favorite Christmas films, along with why I think they should be included in every collection.

1) How the Grinch Stole Christmas- Sure, this Dr.Seuss adaptation (the cartoon folks, not the abomination starring Jim Carrey) is a classic, and most people have seen it. Numerous times. Who doesn't know at least one line of "You're a Mean One?" But more than just being a beloved children's favorite, the Grinch also has one of the greatest messages of any Christmas story. It wonderfully portrays the fact that family, togetherness and joy is what makes the season special, and despite his best efforts, no Grinch can take that away. It's a beautiful moral that should make everyone's heart grow three sizes!!!

2) The Muppets' Christmas Carol- Here we have an amazingly cute twist on yet another classic tale. Aside from being one of the most accurate versions (in comparison to the book), this movie also has all the whimsy, imagination, and charm we've all come to expect from the Muppets. And again, it's a story that exists to teach us all what's really important in life- friends, family, kindness, and generosity. The entire film is punctuated with catchy and infectious songs that help make this movie and quick favorite for everyone who sees it.

3) The Year without a Santa Claus- This holiday film is '70s clay-mation at its best! It's a simple story that follows how miserable children around the world would be if Santa took the year off, convinced that kids just don't believe in him anymore. Of course, there is one boy who believes so much he's willing to try and change Santa's mind. Add to the mix some elves, Rudolph, and the hysterical Heat Miser and Snow Miser, and it becomes a movie that's eclectic enough to be enjoyed by all ages. As with the Muppets' Christmas Carol, you'll find yourself humming the songs long after the movie is over.

4) National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation- I'll admit, maybe this one doesn't exactly capture the true "Christmas spirit." However, it made the list. No one can deny that it's a pretty accurate portrayal of how trying some family get-togethers can be. When family shows up unannounced, or with ridiculous gifts, sometimes it's hard to keep your cool. It also exemplifies how even the best laid plans can go horribly wrong. Oh, and besides all that, did I mention that it's unbelievably funny? I also think this movie is a great outlet for holiday stress because at some point, we've all been as fed up as Clark Griswald. But it's good to know we've never had it quite that bad.

So there you have it. My personal favorite Christmas movies. I hope this inspires you to check some of these out if you've never seen them, or to dust them off if they're old favorites of yours as well. Have a great holiday season!