Christmas is here and that means precious time spent with family and friends.
There is no greater gift this season than spending time with family.
That’s one of the reasons I love our cover story this month so much.
We spent some time with a special Mississippi family that worked for years on an incredible art project.
Nathan VonMinden, his wife Meleice, and three of their six children made a feature film. The holiday movie, “Steal the Naughty List,” is a stop-motion animation film with a story centered on adventure, personal growth, and the real St. Nicholas.
If you’ve read my columns before, you know I love to watch Hallmark Christmas movies during the holidays.
Now I have a new holiday favorite to add to the list thanks to the VonMindens.
Traditionally, one’s work life and family life are separate. For four years, those lines were blurred as the family struggled and triumphed together during the filmmaking process.
The family admitted it was stressful. But what a journey to undertake.
The final product — available on streaming services including Apple TV/iTunes — is a testament to the family’s hard work, talent, and dedication to a singular goal.
There are lessons in the film and lessons in the story of the VonMindens.
Perseverance, teamwork, and the desire to spread a positive message all come immediately to mind.
So, if you and your family are looking for a funny and heartwarming Christmas adventure film to watch over the holidays, you can’t go wrong with this homegrown future classic.
Today in Mississippi wishes all our members a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
