Thanksgiving is a time for reflection, gratitude, and, of course, family. This year, we were reminded of how much joy it brings to gather with our loved ones, share laughter, and indulge in all the delicious food that makes the holiday so special. From the perfectly roasted turkey and savory stuffing to the sweet pies and homemade cranberry sauce, the meal was a beautiful expression of tradition and togetherness. We are incredibly thankful for the moments spent with family and the opportunity to create lasting memories.

Now that Thanksgiving has passed, we’re officially shifting our focus to the Christmas season. The excitement is building, and while the holiday spirit is in full swing, there’s still plenty of work to be done to ensure that everything is ready for the big day. From shopping to decorating, here’s a look at what we still need to tackle in the coming weeks to prepare for Christmas:

Things I Still Need to Do Before Christmas:

1. Finish Christmas shopping for the kids and extended family.

2. Wrap presents and get them organized under the tree.

3. Decorate the house—while keeping it simple this year, we still want to make it festive.

4. Send out Christmas cards to loved ones, and maybe include a family update.

5. Plan the Christmas meal—it will be cozy but delicious, as always.

6. Attend a Christmas church service to celebrate the true meaning of the season.

7. Create a new family tradition—perhaps a holiday movie night or a Christmas Eve gift exchange.

8. Involve the kids in crafting holiday decorations or making homemade gifts.

9. Plan a family outing to enjoy the holiday lights or a local event.

10. Take time for reflection and gratitude—amid all the hustle and bustle, remembering the true reason for the season.

With all the excitement of the season ahead, we’re also gearing up for some serious shopping. Black Friday is one of the best times to find incredible deals, and many retailers have already started offering early bird discounts. If you’re planning to make the most of the sales this year, here’s a roundup of 10 national retailers with standout Black Friday deals for 2024:

Top 10 National Businesses with Black Friday Deals

1. Amazon

2024 Deal: Amazon is offering up to 40% off select electronics including headphones, smart home devices, and Amazon-branded products like Echo speakers. Plus, deep discounts on toys and holiday gifts across all categories.

2. Target

2024 Deal: Target is offering 25% off select home items such as bedding and kitchen gadgets. There’s also a major sale on kids’ clothing and toys, with discounts as high as 50% off.

3. Best Buy

2024 Deal: Best Buy’s Black Friday Doorbusters include $200 off select laptops, and $100 off 50″ 4K TVs. Additionally, they have discounts on gaming consoles and smartphones up to $300 off.

4. Walmart

2024 Deal: Walmart is offering $100 off select Apple AirPods Pro and up to 60% off toys. There are also huge savings on home appliances, including $50 off vacuums and $100 off refrigerators.

5. Macy’s

2024 Deal: Macy’s has a Black Friday sale offering 40% off select clothing, 50% off bedding, and up to 60% off holiday décor. They also have gift sets and beauty products on sale for up to 50% off.

6. Home Depot

2024 Deal: Home Depot’s Black Friday deals include up to 40% off power tools and 10% off appliances. There are also discounts on Christmas trees and outdoor décor to get your home ready for the holidays.

7. Lowe’s

2024 Deal: Lowe’s is offering $50 off select tools, up to 30% off holiday lighting, and 10% off large appliances. You’ll also find discounts on home improvement essentials.

8. Old Navy

2024 Deal: Old Navy is offering 50% off everything in stores and online, with special deals on outerwear, sweaters, and jeans for the whole family. Plus, enjoy extra savings on select items.

9. Kohl’s

2024 Deal: Kohl’s Black Friday event includes up to 50% off select home goods, 20% off electronics, and buy one, get one free offers on apparel. They also offer $15 Kohl’s Cash for every $50 spent.

10. JCPenney

2024 Deal: JCPenney is offering 40% off select clothing, 30% off home items, and discounts on jewelry and shoes. They also have a Black Friday mystery sale with surprise savings for in-store shoppers.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or adding a few essentials to your home, these Black Friday deals can help you score big savings while crossing off your holiday shopping list.

As we dive into the heart of the holiday season, it’s important to remember that the true reason for the season is not found in the presents we give or receive, but in the gift that was given to us—the birth of Jesus Christ. His love, grace, and sacrifice are what make Christmas truly meaningful. Amid the gift-giving and celebrations, we can take a moment to reflect on the miracle of His birth and the joy He brings into our lives.

Jesus is the reason for the season—He’s the ultimate gift, and everything else is a reminder of His goodness and love. This holiday season, let’s focus on what truly matters: love, kindness, and the hope that Jesus offers to all of us.

Wishing you all a joyful and peaceful holiday season,

The Knapton Family