Kaela Worthen, Associate Editor
This year, I love:
The Christmas Oranges, $17.99
This is a heart-warming film that will bring the spirit of Christmas into your home and possibly tears to your eyes as well (it did to mine). Sweet and endearing, it pays definite homage to the 1995 film A Little Princess, with many of the same character archetypes and the same bit of magical wonder in it. A perfect film for the entire family to watch together.
This show is an absolute Christmas classic that will definitely put you in the right mood for the season and thinking about the right reason for the season--Christ. Even if you've seen it before, I highly recommend seeing it again, because there are a few new cast members this year who are spectacular. Most notably, McKenzie Turley takes on the role of Sarah, and you'll also get to see her perform some additional songs after the show. She's great, and I can't wait to see her in Michael McLean's upcoming new musical, Threads (album available in January, musical tour in April). In case you're not able to see the show in person, you can also buy the book, CD, or DVD online.
Kate Ensign-Lewis, Online Editor
Some things that make my holiday list this year:
Holy Infant so Tender, J. Kirk Richards, $135
The Nativity has a special place in my heart since my childhood home was always decorated with mutliple creches at Christmas and we always reenacted this sacred event on Christmas Eve. J. Kirk Richards' modern depiction of a special moment between mother and child is a welcome addition to other represenations of the scene. It's simply a beautiful piece that, if hung at home, would refocus any on Jesus, the meaning of the season and the author of our faith.
How Do Dinosaurs Say Merry Christmas? by Jane Yolen (illustrated by Mark Teague), $11.55
This series is a favorite for all the children in my family - nieces, nephews, even my 18-month-old. And this Christmas version, just published a couple months ago, adds to the holiday fun with mischeivious dinosaurs sneaking out of bed and peeking at presents. Children learn dinosaur names and characteristics, as well as good behavior characteristics. I love everything about it.
Ruthann Cunningham, Circulation Manager
My pick this Christmas:
Silent Night, $16.19
This DVD features the story behind the timeless Christmas song. It inspires you to reach out and uplift those around you. I also loved the beautiful shots of Austria throughout the film. The story is a great way to get you in the Christmas spirit.
Jamie Lawson, Managing Editor
I love Christmas music, so I'm always on the hunt for a great new album. Here are two that I will be playing throughout the season:
Noel: Carols of Christmas Past, Jenny Oaks Baker, $15.28
This album is hauntingly beautiful. Grammy-nominated violinist Jenny Oaks Baker doesn't disappoint with this collection of classic Christmas songs. This is the perfect album for relaxing and curling up by the fire. My personal favorite is "Oiche Chiuin," a Gaelic arrangement of Silent Night featuring Alex Sharpe of Celtic Woman on vocals. (Watch the video here.)
Ashley Evanson, Online Editor
These are a couple of my favorite things this Christmas:
The Christmas Train, Thomas S. Monson (illustrated by Dan Burr), $17.09
Whenever President Thomas S. Monson gets up to speak, I always look forward to the wonderful stories he tells from his past. His new children's picture book, The Christmas Train, is one of these stories from his childhood come to life, and it's absolutely beautiful. After receiving a much-wanted electric train for Christmas, little Tommy Monson's mother pulls out a less expensive wind-up train to give to a neighbor boy. He notices an oil tanker his set did not come with and quickly takes it from the other boy's set before it is given away. When he sees the boy's joy at the simple gift, he feels a pang of guilt and makes a decision that will inspire readers and bring the spirit of Christmas into your home. For me, this is one of those books that will be a special part of Christmas for my family for years to come.
Margareta Christmas Tree Fabric, IKEA, $6.99/yard
I'm in love with this Christmas tree fabric from IKEA. At only $6.99 a yard, this tree is an inexpensive and easy way to make your house more festive. It's great for small living spaces, or you could even turn it into an advent calendar like this blogger from Oh, Happy Day.
Staff Gift Picks:
Overall Pick:
A Prophet's Voice: Messages from Thomas S. Monson, $29.69
For Women:
The Beginning of Better Days: Divine Instruction to Women from the Prophet Joseph Smith, $17.09
For Men:
For Times of Trouble, Jeffrey R. Holland, $22.94
For Youth:
What Girls Need to Know about Guys; What Guys Need to Know About Girls, John Hilton III and Lani Hilton, $14.99
For Kids:
My First Book of Temples (Board Book), Deanna Draper Buck, $14.39