Leisure That Brings Me Joy Every Year Around This Time

Hey Love,

You know what really makes me happier this time of year? Watching Christmas movies!! Yes! In spite of the year it’s been, that’s still on top of my list every holiday season, and let me tell you three reasons why.

1. They bring my family together. Whether it’s introducing my children to a movie I loved growing up or discovering a new favorite together, it’s one of those moments where we all just relax and laugh.

2. They remind me of simple joys. With everything going on in life, Christmas movies remind me that it’s the little things, like shared laughter, nostalgia, and cozy moments, that mean the most.

3. They spark healing and hope. These stories are often filled with love, forgiveness, and togetherness, and I love how they reflect the kind of connection I’m cultivating in my own family.

Even though I’m separated this Christmas, I’m living on purpose for me and my children and staying connected with their father so we can win Co-Parents of the Year. That’s a title I’m pushing for no matter what.

In fact, whenever my children ask me if their dad and I are getting a divorce, my response is always the same. “I can’t say right now whether we will or we won’t, but one thing I do know is, no matter what’s decided, we’ll be Co-Parents of the Year every year when it comes to y’all!” And I mean that.

This weekend, I got some much-needed downtime while my children were with their father. Normally he has them on Saturdays, but this time he got them both Saturday and Sunday. I just let loose. I stayed in, talked to friends for hours, got my steps in, ordered uber eats and the biggest thing I did? Watch my Christmas movies.

When I tell you Christmas movies are bae, please believe me. And I absolutely love introducing my children to my favorites.

Today I want to keep it light and share with you my Top 10 Christmas Movies of All Time while also showing how simple joys like this can add to your life of leisure that cost almost nothing.

Ready to see my list? Let’s Geaux!

1. Almost Christmas (I cry laughing every single time I watch this especially a particular scene lol)

2. Home Alone & Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (classic childhood memories. Still funny as heck)

3. This Christmas (Regina King scene with the belt. IYKYK 😉 )

4. The Grinch (Jim Carrey version. No one does it better. He leaves me in tears especially on that lil bike 😆 )

5. A Christmas Story (You’ll shoot your eye out! 😆 This is my childhood all day right here)

6. The Preacher’s Wife (I means it’s Denzel & Whitney and the rest of the cast is 🔥 ) 

7. Best Man Holiday (I cry but I love this forever 💋 )

8. Merry Liddle Christmas (and sequels. Kelly did her thing in these plus I love who plays her Mom and Sister. Gotta watch to find out)

9. The Perfect Holiday (You already know 😉 )

10. Black Nativity (This should be mandatory to watch for all especially those of the culture)

Bonus: Any Lifetime or Hallmark Christmas specials

So…what do you think of my list?

Now it’s your turn. You gotta reply back and share your favorite Christmas movies with me and share your thoughts on mine. I’d love to hear what brings you joy this time of year. And remember, if you want a one on one session with me on anything Love, Leisure and Pleasure, connect with me here. And as always, if my newsletter blesses you, you have the opportunity to bless me back by clicking here.

Always Much Love,

~ Octavia E Vance (OEV) 💋