Coming Christmas Film Reviews Free! Fun for the Whole Family including Granma!!

  Miracle at Christmas Comes at the Behest of a Herald

By Will Burns

The film opens on Christmas morning with Mary (Erin Bethea), a mother lying in bed, despondent and reluctant to celebrate the holiday. Her children protest, urging her to join the joy of gift-giving, so her husband, James (Jason Burkey), goes to fetch her. Using his powers of persuasion, James gently urges Mary to pull herself together for the kids' sake.

The children first present their parents with a thoughtful gift: a framed picture of them as newlyweds, which brings a tear to Mary’s eye. James follows this with tickets for a holiday package for two. However, when Mary reads the date, she becomes distraught. The family had received a grim prognosis from the doctor—James’s illness gave him an eighteen-month life expectancy, making the holiday plans seem tragically out of reach.

While James and the children leave for church, Mary stays behind, ostensibly to prepare Christmas dinner for the extended family. At church, James is introduced to Harry (Brett Varvel), a stranger from out of town with no one to celebrate Christmas with. James compliments Harry on his singing, inquiring if he is a professional. Harry’s impeccable manners, anachronistic vocabulary, and almost too-good-to-be-true kindness make James wonder if the man is even human.

                                             

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The Miracle Begins

When Harry accepts the invitation to join the family, the miracle truly begins. Upon being introduced to Mary’s brother, Peter (James Pilachosky), and his Hispanic girlfriend, Gabby (Jacquelin Yunez), Harry tries out his Spanish on Gabby with impeccable fluency. Everyone is in awe when Harry speaks Spanish as flawlessly as he does English.

If that isn’t enough, he proves himself an able quarterback when the family heads to the yard for a football scrimmage. Presenting himself as a novice, everyone is shocked when he throws the football "out of the park," setting off a car alarm when the ball strikes the windshield of a car in the parking lot.

Tensions rise in the kitchen when Mary starts squabbling with Peter. When her brother defends himself, Mary snaps, blaming her lack of holiday spirit on her father’s death and her husband’s grim prognosis. Fearing she will soon be left a widow with three children, she springs the news of her pregnancy upon everyone in a surprising outburst. Realizing her behavior has gotten out of hand, she soon initiates a "hug-fest" with Peter, her mom, husband, and children.

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The Herald's Farewell

No sooner is the hug-fest over than five carolers come to the door. They sing a touching rendition of "Star of Wonder, Star of Night" and "Joy to the World" and then depart. Mary expresses the wish that they had stayed to sing her deceased husband’s favorite, "Hark the Herald Angels Sing." They head inside only to see Harry already starting his flawless rendition of the beloved Christmas hymn. How apropos, since Harry is revealed to be an angelic herald after all.

With the miraculous events of the day improving the family’s outlook, they ask after Harry, only to be told that he left, leaving behind a card for Mary. When Mary reads it, she is instructed to go into the other room to fetch a "memento" he has left for her. When she sees the broken newlywed photo that she had accidentally damaged, now fully restored and perfectly intact, she realizes they are privy to yet another miracle. The letter reads:

“I leave you this restored gift as a token, ever to remind you that ours is a mighty God for whom nothing is impossible, including the mending of the broken hearts of those suffering from loss and sorrow. He who sacrificed His son to save the lost will never leave or forsake you.”

Amen.

Christmas for Three' Is a Heartwarming Treat for the Holidays

 Will Burns

This indie film, full of touching moments, is the perfect treat for the holidays.

When young Jason Lancaster (Jasper Burger) tragically loses his parents in an accident, he enters the care of social services. His dedicated social worker, Sophie Walker (Ashley Brinkman), becomes concerned when none of the prospective foster parents seem to be the right fit for him. Sophie discovers that Jason’s parents had chosen Benito (Mario Silva) as the boy's godfather should anything happen to them.

Sophie brings Jason to Benito’s home, dropping the news on him suddenly. Benito, an independent-minded bachelor, is initially reticent to take on such a massive responsibility. However, out of loyalty to Jason’s father—his best friend since school days—Benito is persuaded to adopt the boy, whose cute, likable disposition soon begins to win him over.

Complications and Conflict

Anxious to experience the family bonding he once had, the boy quickly begins playing matchmaker, hoping to lure Sophie into his foster father's life. Though initially embarrassed by Jason’s repetitive refrain, the social worker and the foster parent eventually share a kiss in a private moment.

Matters quickly become complicated, however, because Sophie’s workplace has strict policies against care workers becoming romantically involved with client families. To make matters worse, Sophie is being sexually harassed by her male boss, Aaron Schmidt. Wishing to have Sophie all to himself, Aaron explicitly forbids her from seeing Benito and Jason outside of work.

Fearing for her job security, Sophie tells Benito that the case is officially closed and she won't be able to see them anymore. Seized by bitterness at what he perceives as a personal rejection, Benito takes the news badly, and the couple has a serious fight. Unfortunately, Benito’s harsh words about the situation are overheard and misunderstood by Jason.

          

A Touching Reconciliation

Believing that he is unwanted and feeling abandoned by his deceased parents and grandparents, and now his foster parent and Sophie, Jason runs away and hides out in a shed near Benito’s inherited family home. Frantic, Benito goes into panic mode, desperately searching for the boy. In his desperation, he calls Sophie, who immediately races over to help.

Then, a realization hits Benito: Jason’s father had taught them both how to pick locks when they were boys, and Benito guesses his friend passed on the trick to his son. Luckily, Benito’s instincts prove correct, and he finds Jason hiding inside the shed.

When Jason expresses his profound sadness over repeated instances of abandonment, Benito gently commiserates with the boy. The foster parent and child share a touching moment of bonding, which Sophie happens to witness when she finds them together. The three lonely souls exchange heartfelt apologies and end up in a warm embrace.

Christmas and Comeuppance

On Christmas morning, the new family exchanges gifts. Sophie is deeply touched when Benito and Jason present her with a locket containing their pictures, so she can always carry them close to her heart. When Sophie apologizes for not having a present for Benito, he protests that they have already given him the best gift ever , family.

Meanwhile, furious at being spurned, Sophie’s boss, Aaron, reports her to their director, Midge (Naomi Matsuda), accusing Sophie of breaking the rules by dating her client. Denying the allegation, Sophie becomes outraged, protesting that Aaron has been sexually harassing her ever since he was transferred to their branch office.

Just when we brace for Midge to fire Sophie, Midge suddenly announces that this news, combined with two other complaints from the office party, makes it clear that Aaron is the one to be terminated. Sophie is instead instructed to move into the director’s office she has just received a promotion. The "creep" Aaron retreats with "tail between his legs," having finally received his comeuppance.

We are left wondering how the couple will maintain their relationship while navigating Sophie’s strict office rules, but we can safely guess that the 'Three for Christmas' will soon be the 'Three for a Lifetime.' It’s a sure bet that their New Year's resolution will be a wedding announcement, solidifying their new family. We can only have faith that love will conquer all and make things right at Sophie’s social services office.

‘Angels in the Snow’ Reminds Us about the True Meaning of Giving

By Will Burns

The Mongomerys sleep late on their second day at the winter holiday cabin, when they are roused from

their slumber by frantic banging at the front door. Taking in the scene on the security camera, they realize

their visitors are in distress. The couple go down to answer the door and are greeted by a half frozen

family, who have been caught in a blizzard on their way to the ski resort. Not untouched by the Christmas

spirit, the Montgomerys invite the visitors into the cabin to warm up. The African-American family,

overwhelmed by the hospitality, humbly accept. Insisting the Tuckers change out of their snowy attire,

Judith Mongomery {Kristy Swanson} has their guests conducted to their rooms, while she fetches them

some fresh clothing. Once the Tuckers are cozy and warm, their hosts, not having the heart to send them

out into the cold again, invite them to spend Christmas with their family.

Emily, the youngest, is excited to have playmates to make snow angels with her. With the Christmas tree

naked accept for lights, the children set to making their own ornaments to decorate the tree with, since

Charles Montgomery {Chris Potter} forgot the box of ornaments at home. This only irritates the already

vexed Judith the more, since Joe has spent most of the holiday on call or texting with company

management. What makes this so infuriating is the fact that Dad has expressly forbid anyone else to use

their phone over Christmas. No matter, the homemade ornaments give this Christmas a more authentic

feel as the kids delightedly draw, cut, and stitch their Christmas ornaments.

Following a restful Christmas Eve, the Montgomerys busy themselves changing the name tags on the

presents so they can include the Tuckers in the gift-giving. Already overwhelmed by the sanctuary they’ve

been afforded, the Tuckers are humbled by the Montgomery’s generosity. As the day has brought much to

give thanks for, Joe Tucker {Colin Laurence} invites everyone to participate in a Tucker Christmas

tradition. As the candle is passed around, each recipient must explain what they are most thankful for. To

demonstrate, Joe goes first, expressing gratitude to God for his lovely wife and children, thanking Amy

for giving him a taste of paradise each day he spends with her. When it’s Charles’ turn, he gives thanks for

another good year at the company. Too self-absorbed to see the effect he is having on his family, he makes

a balls of the thanksgiving, prompting Judith to excuse herself in a huff. Aware of Judith’s hurt feelings,

Amy Tucker {Catherine Haggquist} goes after Judith in an attempt to assuage her hurt feelings.

While the storm rages outside, a storm is brewing inside. In fact, the situation culminates in Judith

warning Charles that as soon as the Tuckers leave she’s driving the kids back home without him.

Realizing he’s about to be left out in the cold without a family, Charles repents and does some serious

soul-searching. Distraught, he even sniffles when Jennifer {Lizzy Boys} comes to fetch him for more

holiday festivities. At one point, Charles ventures out in the storm to reflect on where he went wrong

when a pine tree blows over on top of him.

With Dad missing, the family conduct a search, but it’s Alexander {Nick Pucha} who spots his father

under the tree and calls for help. Joe Tucker’s the hero of the hour, raising up the tree so the others can

rescue Charles from the fallen tree. After examining him, Amy, who used to be a nurse, concludes that he

may have a concussion, but has been spared any serious neck or spine injury. The patient passes the night

safely and is joined by his children come morning, who enter the master bedroom to check on his

condition. Emily is, of course, the first to cuddle with Daddy, followed by Jennifer. When it’s revealed

that Alex is the one who found him, Dad is humbled and thanks Alex for saving his life. Alex then joins

in on the hug fest.

When the Tuckers announce their plans to depart, the Montgomerys unanimously protest. Charles draws

Joe to one side, imploring him to stay for one more day. When he explains that Judith has threatened to

leave him as soon as the Tuckers depart, he persuades Joe that, with one extra day, he might be able to put

things right, so Joe consents.

As the Montgomery family relations slowly mend, Charles asks Joe if he can have a second turn at the

candle to express gratitude for what really matters. Taking up the candle, Charles gives thanks for his

precious children, and then for his neglected wife, for whom he finally lavishes his heartfelt appreciation.

In a private moment, he even confides that he remembers what she was wearing when they first met – a

long red dress with long earrings. Touched by this, Judith curls up in her husband’s lap.

When Judith has her chance to express thanks, she claims that, while they initially intended to help out the

Tuckers, it’s clear that the Tuckers have helped them see what a truly loving family is like. Having cried

wolf once, the Tuckers aren’t messing this time when they announce their departure. The two families say

a warm farewell, vowing to see each other again. As the Tuckers depart, the weather turns inclement

again. The Montgomerys decide to follow them to see that they get off safely. I have to stop there to avoid

the spoiler. Let’s just say the title of the film becomes clear at the very end. Out of the mouths of babes,

it’s Emily who figures out who the Tuckers really are as another miracle has come to pass at Christmas.

All of the movies reviewed below can be found on YouTube for free.

HOW TO USE COOKING AS THERAPY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Cassandra RIP

 How to Use Cooking as Therapy for the Whole Family

In today's fast-paced and digitally dominated world, families are increasingly seeking ways to reconnect—not just over meals, but through the very process of making them. Cooking, once considered a mundane necessity or a solitary passion, has been reimagined as a powerful form of therapy. It's tactile, immersive, and richly layered with opportunities for mindfulness, communication, and emotional growth. Particularly within Canadian households, the idea of culinary therapy is finding its place as a holistic practice that can strengthen relationships and support mental health across generations.

Culinary therapy refers to the intentional use of cooking as a therapeutic activity. It engages the senses, fosters creativity, builds routine, and supports emotional resilience. Far beyond just stirring pots and seasoning dishes, this practice creates a space for shared experience—a form of healing that speaks through simmering soups and warm loaves of bread.

According to a feature from Global News Canada, therapists and educators increasingly recommend cooking as a useful tool in coping with conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. It’s more than just a distraction—it’s an act of creation, where individuals can rediscover control, nurture self-esteem, and develop patience. Cooking offers a chance to slow down, stay present, and share in the rewards of communal achievement.

Children, in particular, benefit from the therapeutic nature of cooking. Involving them in kitchen tasks—whether it's whisking batter, measuring flour, or arranging toppings—offers a sense of agency and accomplishment. These activities foster cognitive development, help regulate emotions, and encourage language and motor skills. Cooking is also an excellent avenue for teaching patience and resilience; if the cookies burn or the pizza dough sticks, there’s a lesson and a shared laugh.

But the healing power of cooking isn't limited to young children. Teenagers, often caught between craving autonomy and needing emotional connection, find a unique kind of independence and bonding in the kitchen. Letting them select recipes, take the lead in meal prep, or explore culinary trends allows them to feel heard while remaining engaged in family life. Food can also be a cultural or generational bridge—passing down recipes from parents to teens can spark storytelling, pride, and legacy.

For multigenerational households or aging family members, cooking can be both emotionally enriching and cognitively stimulating. Preparing traditional dishes often evokes memory and meaning, especially for older adults. It encourages movement, mental agility, and emotional expression. Organizations like Cooking Up Change, a Canadian nonprofit, have shown that cooking together reduces isolation and fosters intergenerational relationships. Through hands-on programs, seniors and youth collaborate in kitchens—trading technique for wisdom, and food for stories.

In British Columbia, the West Coast Centre for Learning provides a compelling model for the therapeutic potential of cooking. Their “Coach in the Kitchen” initiative teaches neurodiverse individuals how to prepare meals through simple, sequential steps. By using cooking as a developmental tool, they improve participants' social interaction, sensory tolerance, and life skills in a manner that’s personalized and empowering.

The emotional regulation fostered by cooking is one of its most compelling aspects. Tasks like chopping, kneading, or blending can offer a repetitive, calming rhythm. These motions ground individuals in the present moment—a mindfulness practice that’s instinctive and soothing. Especially for families coping with stress, grief, or big transitions, cooking becomes a gentle yet purposeful ritual. It requires attention, rewards effort, and stimulates all five senses.

                                                                  

And the therapeutic process doesn’t require a specialized kitchen or a professional chef. All that’s needed is intention. Families can begin with simple routines—planning meals together, assigning roles, sharing the cleanup. Theme nights, memory meals, or playful “cooking challenges” encourage collaboration while reinforcing positive emotions. The act of working toward a shared goal, and then enjoying its outcome, builds self-esteem and strengthens relational bonds.

What makes cooking uniquely effective as family therapy is its versatility and accessibility. It is grounded in everyday life and offers immediate, tangible benefits. Through the process of preparing food, families develop better communication, celebrate each other’s strengths, and create new traditions. Burnt lasagnas turn into shared jokes; experimental soups become inside stories. These interactions are the seasoning of deeper emotional connection.

Canadian experts and initiatives continue to reinforce the therapeutic value of cooking:

• In Global News Canada’s 2021 feature, culinary therapy was highlighted as a tool for managing mental health challenges, particularly among marginalized communities and during the isolation of the pandemic.

• Cooking Up Change, operating in Ontario, provides therapeutic cooking workshops that combat loneliness and improve emotional resilience through community kitchen experiences.

• The West Coast Centre for Learning applies cooking interventions to support individuals with autism and learning challenges—creating space for confidence, growth, and independence through food.

Together, these examples affirm a simple yet profound truth: when families cook together, they don’t just make meals—they make memories. They shape rituals, forge trust, and nurture each other in tangible, lasting ways. The kitchen becomes not just a space for food, but a sanctuary of healing, laughter, and love.

So next time your family gathers over a mixing bowl or stovetop, know that you're doing more than making dinner. You’re crafting connection, stirring strength, and feeding the soul.

Summer Fun Family Picnics Budget Friendly Tips and Recipes

 Save Money on Your Summer Picnics: Budget-Friendly Tips & Recipes

 By Gina Cianfarani, CP Chef

Summer picnics are the perfect way to relax and connect with family and friends. But if you’re not careful, picnic costs can add up quickly. With a little planning, you can enjoy the sunshine without burning a hole in your wallet.

                                          

                                  

          

Smart Ways to Picnic on a Budget

• Plan meals around sales and leftovers
  Use what you have at home. Leftover grilled meats, pasta, or roasted veggies can be turned into picnic-friendly dishes.

• Buy in-season fruits and vegetables
  Local produce like watermelon, corn, cucumbers, and strawberries are usually cheaper and fresher.

• Make large-batch items
  Choose recipes that stretch across multiple servings, like salads and sliders.

• Pack reusable gear
  Skip single-use items and invest in reusable containers, cutlery, and cooler packs.

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Budget-Friendly Picnic Recipes

Summer Chickpea Salad Wraps

Ingredients:

• 1 can (540 ml) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• 1 small cucumber, chopped

• 1/4 red onion, finely diced

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise or plain yogurt

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 4 whole wheat tortillas or wraps

• Optional: lettuce or spinach leaves

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mash half the chickpeas for texture.

2. Mix in remaining chickpeas, carrots, cucumber, red onion, mayo/yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Spoon the mixture onto tortillas, add greens if using, and roll up.

4. Wrap in foil or parchment for easy transport.

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 2. Mini Hamburger Sliders 

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef, chicken or turkey

• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder to taste or 1/2 tablespoon each

• sprinkle of cheese of your choice.

• 8 to 12 mini buns or dinner rolls

• Optional topping cheese slices, pickles, ketchup, mustard

Instructions:

1. Season beef, form into 8 to 12 mini patties.

2. Cook on the grill until done.

3. Add cheese, toast buns if desired.

4. Serve with toppings of choice.

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 3. Classic Hot Dogs with a Twist 

Ingredients:

• Hot dogs or sausages

• Hot dog buns

• Toppings: mustard, relish, sautéed onions, coleslaw, or leftover chili

• CuGinas Flavors Kalamaolive Pesto and (Carrot Cake Jam if you want it sweetened. )

Instructions:

1. Grill hot dogs until lightly charred.

2. Serve with budget-friendly toppings listed above. 

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 4. Simple Potato Salad 

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1/2 cup mayo, Greek yogurt or CuGinas Flavors Spicy Meat Dressing

• 1 tbsp mustard

• 1/4 cup diced pickles or relish

• Salt, pepper, and optional green onions

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes until fork-tender, drain and cool.

2. Mix with the remaining ingredients.

3. Chill before serving.

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5. Couscous and Tuna Salad 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup couscous

• 1 can tuna, drained

• 1/2 cup diced cucumber

• 1/2 cup chopped cherry tomatoes

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Salt, pepper, parsley

Instructions:

1. Prepare couscous as directed and cool.

2. Mix with tuna, veggies, oil, lemon juice, and seasoning.

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6. Summer Garden Salad 

Ingredients:

• 1 head of romaine or mixed greens

• 1 cucumber, sliced

• 1 carrot, shredded

• 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, sliced into halves.

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

• Simple dressing: olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients.

2. Toss with dressing just before serving.

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7. Fresh Fruit Salad with Mint 

Ingredients:

• 2 cups watermelon, cubed

• 1 cup strawberries, halved

• 1 cup grapes or cantaloupe 

• 1 cup of apple

• Juice of 1 lime or lemon

• A handful of fresh mint

Instructions:

1. Mix fruit in a bowl.

2. Drizzle with lime juice and add chopped mint.

3. Chill until ready to serve.

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Bonus Tip: DIY Sweet Treats

Bring along inexpensive treats like:

• Chocolate chip cookies

• Rice crispy squares

• Homemade granola bars

All of these can be made ahead and packed in reusable containers.

By now you should picnic like a pro on a budget

By planning smart and choosing cost-effective, crowd-pleasing recipes, you can enjoy unforgettable summer picnics without overspending. Keep it simple, seasonal, and shareable—and your wallet (and guests) will thank you.

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