{Christmas at the Stowells}

Christmas with family—honestly, is there anything better? It’s hands-down my favorite time of year. There’s just something so special about coming together, slowing down, and soaking in those moments with the people you love most. The lights, the food, the laughter—it all just feels like home.

This year felt a little different, though. A little more tender. A little more precious....

This year, we celebrated a little differently. Normally, we spend Christmas Eve at my parents’ house, surrounded by good food, familiar traditions, and the kind of stories that get better every time they're told. But this year, we gathered a day early—on Christmas Eve Eve. I don’t know if that’s technically a holiday, but it sure felt like one to us.

A couple of months ago, my mom had to undergo brain surgery. It was one of those life moments that shakes you a bit—where everything else fades into the background and you realize just how precious health, family, and time really are. We prayed, leaned hard into our faith, and held each other close. And I can’t say it enough—praise God for her recovery. Seeing her up and smiling this Christmas was the greatest gift any of us could’ve asked for. I found myself watching her more closely this year—grateful for every laugh, every hug, every bit of her presence. 

Along with all the heartfelt moments, we’ve also developed a fun little tradition over the last few years that’s quickly become a family favorite—the hot sauce challenge. It all started when one of my nephews got a hot sauce sampler kit for Christmas. What started as a casual taste test turned into a full-blown competition between him, my brother, Mason, and the other nephews.

Each year, a new kit arrives, and the challenge begins: they work their way through each sauce, from mild to fiery, trying not to be the first one to reach for a drink. No water, no milk, no relief—until someone taps out. It’s become one of the highlights of the night. We all gather around, laughing until we cry as their faces turn red and their eyes water. There’s always one who folds first, and you better believe they get teased for it until next Christmas.

Between the heat of the hot sauce, the warmth of being together, and the comfort of knowing Mom was healthy and with us—it truly was a Christmas to remember.

This Christmas reminded me that the best gifts aren’t the ones wrapped in shiny paper. They’re the moments that catch you off guard. The laughter, the healing, the traditions. The people.

So here’s to family, to new memories, to Mom’s incredible strength, and yes—even to the brave (and slightly crazy) ones who take on the hot sauce challenge every year. May we never overlook the beauty in these simple, meaningful moments.

Wishing you and yours a joyful, peaceful, and unforgettable holiday season.