I was delighted to be able to review Christ-Centered Christmas By Hal and Melanie Young of Raising Real Men (another book on my to-read list). It is a wonderful record of the Young family’s Christmas traditions full of lots of history, hymns and recipes and many ideas of how to keep Christ the center of your family’s celebrations.

I am quite taken with the different tidbits of information and the artwork in the book. The history of Boniface was something I had never heard before and it is very interesting. The decorating section is simple and easy, and has instructions for making your own garland and wreath.

The recipe section is fantastic! I can’t wait to make several of the recipes this week as gifts for neighbors and friends. The ham delights have always been a staple at our family Christmas as well. Reading through the recipes and stories make you feel like a part of the Young family.

Music is very near and dear to my heart, and the beautiful hymns, and the reasons they have been chosen, are awesome. The lyrics are there for you to have your own caroling session with your family. And there really is a beauty in the words of the “old” carol/hymns that is simply unparalleled by the Christmas songs of today.

All in all, this is a quick read and is definitely a print it off and highlight/dogear the pages book. Mine will be residing in a binder for quick reference in the kitchen and at the piano. The warmth of this family jumps right off the page and invites you to curl up next to the fire and join in the singing and eating. I definitely recommend getting your own copy of Christ-Centered Christmas.

Merry Christmas!