24 Days of Martin – Day 20: Christmas Movies

The neighborhood Martin lives in is having major internet issues. The connection works, then goes down, then works, then goes down again. It has been like this all day long for three whole days!

Since it is difficult for Martin to tell his holiday stories with no internet, today he wanted to show you the two new outfits he received as early presents. He is now ready to spread holiday cheer everywhere he goes! Martin also wanted to share a list of his family’s Top 5 Christmas Movies. For the past two years, starting December 1st, every evening has been “Christmas Family Night.” Last year, Martin fell asleep during White Christmas and woke up singing “Sisters” in his sleep, an event Dad recorded and plays back every chance he gets.

In December, after dinner each night, Mom pops popcorn while Martin and Dad get the living room “movie ready” with extra pillows, cushions, and blankets. Then, while Martin puts on his pajamas, Dad makes hot chocolate. Once everyone is settled and comfy, Mom pulls out the Christmas Movie Jar. It contains the names of all their favorites and close runner-ups written on individual slips of paper. After a round of “rock-paper-scissors,” the winner pulls a slip, and the movie read aloud is the one they watch that night. This way, all their favorites get watched, and no one can grumble about the order.

Close runner-ups include:

• Die Hard (including annual arguments about whether this is actually a Christmas movie)
• The Nightmare Before Christmas
• Mixed Nuts
• Silent Night
• The Muppet Christmas Carol
• Scrooged
• Trading Places
• Four Christmases
• While You Were Sleeping
• The Gathering