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Writer's pictureAmanda Surratt

A Christmas of Hope, Faith, and Love: Making This Season Truly Meaningful


Christmas is such a beautiful reminder of hope, faith, and love. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we’re reminded of the greatest gift of all—God’s love made visible, a love that brings light to every heart willing to receive it. I wanted to share a little gift with you too: a FREE Christmas wallpaper for your phone, a gentle reminder to carry the beauty of this season with you wherever you go.






Tips to Let Your Light Shine Brightly This Christmas

The holidays are a wonderful time to let our lights shine a little brighter. Here are a few ways to spread that Christmas warmth:

  1. Love a Little Stronger: Be mindful of ways you can express love in small, unexpected gestures—a kind note, a warm hug, or a heartfelt “thank you.”

  2. Smile a Little Longer: Share your joy with those around you! Smiling is contagious, and sometimes a simple smile can lift someone’s spirits in ways we don’t realize.

  3. Find Someone to Bring Cheer To: Whether it's a neighbor, a friend, or someone in need, spread cheer with a visit, a small gift, or just by listening.


Creating a Meaningful Holiday Season

There’s so much magic in the little things. Here are a few ways to make this holiday especially meaningful:

  • Cherish Traditions: Hold onto those family traditions that fill your heart. For my family, we absolutely love having Christmas brunch together. We gather around, savoring each bite, and just soaking in the holiday spirit.

  • Make New Memories: As we celebrate, find ways to make new, joyful memories. Whether it’s baking together, playing games, or watching your favorite Christmas movie, these little moments build up a lifetime of cherished memories.

  • Reflect on the Reason for the Season: Take some time to think about what Christmas means to you and your faith. For me, it’s a reminder of the joy and hope brought into the world with the birth of Jesus.


Christmas Brunch: A Family Tradition

Christmas brunch has become one of our family’s most beloved traditions! It’s such a cozy time where we gather, relax, and enjoy each other’s company.

Here’s a Christmas brunch idea that’s gluten-free and dairy-free but still festive and delicious:


Cranberry & Orange Gluten-Free Pancakes

  • Ingredients: Gluten-free pancake mix, almond milk, fresh cranberries, orange zest, a dash of vanilla extract.

  • Instructions: Mix the batter with almond milk, orange zest, and a dash of vanilla. Fold in fresh cranberries. Cook on a hot griddle, then serve with a drizzle of pure maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered coconut sugar.

This brunch idea is fresh, festive, and perfect for a holiday morning surrounded by family!


Peppermint Protein Brownies (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

What’s Christmas without a hint of peppermint? These brownies are high in protein, rich in fiber, and absolutely delicious!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup almond flour

  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder

  • 1/4 cup protein powder (your favorite gluten-free, dairy-free option)

  • 1/2 cup almond butter

  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup

  • 1/4 tsp peppermint extract

  • 1/4 cup dairy-free dark chocolate chips

  • 1/4 tsp baking soda

  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a baking pan with coconut oil.

  2. In a bowl, mix almond flour, cocoa powder, protein powder, baking soda, and salt.

  3. Stir in almond butter, maple syrup, and peppermint extract until smooth.

  4. Fold in chocolate chips, pour into the baking pan, and bake for 20-25 minutes.

  5. Let cool, slice, and enjoy the festive peppermint flavor!


My Christmas Memories

One of my most cherished Christmas memories is when my husband proposed on Christmas in 2012. It was a day filled with joy and excitement, forever etched in my heart. Another favorite memory is going to my grandma’s house on Christmas. She would cook an enormous turkey and ham dinner with all the sides. I can still smell her lemon bars baking in the oven like it was yesterday.

Opening gifts surrounded by family, always receiving the most thoughtful presents from my aunts, uncles, and cousins, and even carolers stopping by to sing us Christmas carols—it was all so magical.

What is your favorite Christmas memory? I’d love to hear about the moments that make this holiday special for you!


Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Lemon Bars (No Processed Sugar)

Though it’s not quite the same as Grandma’s recipe, this gluten-free, dairy-free lemon bar recipe brings a little nostalgia with every bite!

Ingredients:

  • Crust:

    • 1 cup almond flour

    • 1/4 cup coconut flour

    • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

    • 2 tbsp maple syrup

  • Filling:

    • 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice

    • Zest of 2 lemons

    • 1/4 cup coconut milk

    • 1/4 cup maple syrup

    • 3 tbsp coconut flour

    • 3 eggs, whisked

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease an 8x8 baking dish.

  2. For the crust, mix almond flour, coconut flour, coconut oil, and maple syrup. Press into the bottom of the baking dish and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden.

  3. For the filling, combine lemon juice, zest, coconut milk, maple syrup, coconut flour, and eggs. Pour over the crust.

  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the filling is set. Let cool completely before slicing.


Enjoy a healthier version of a nostalgic treat, perfectly tailored to your wellness goals!




Fun fact: My mom’s go-to holiday dessert is Dirt Cake, and it’s still a Christmas favorite in our family!


May this season be filled with love, warmth, and memories to cherish. Remember to download your free Christmas wallpaper for a little extra holiday joy wherever you go. Here’s to a Christmas season that shines brightly with hope, faith, and love. Merry Christmas! 🎄




My goal is to always help you handle life with grace and peace.


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