Fave Christmas movies??

It's the time of year again for nestling all snug in our beds while visions of expensive holiday gifts and mad, last-minute dashes to the crowded department store dance through our heads.

So while you're snuggling up with your significant other or spouse, getting together with the whole family this holiday season, or just going it alone, make sure to take a break to check out one or all of the following classic Christmas movies -- films that are sure to warm your heart and put a smile on your face. And you can't beat staying warm, watching a movie, and enjoying a hot cup of cocoa with the family, all while staying warm and out of the icy cold temperatures that traditionally come with the season.

Fort Scott Tribune newsroom staff members recently chose their favorite Christmas movies and explained why they enjoyed that particular film. The Tribune encourages its readers to get online and share with us their favorite holiday film. And remember to tell us why you especially liked the film you chose.

Rayma Silvers -- "It's a Wonderful Life": The 1946 Frank Capra-directed classic about a man (Jimmy Stewart) whose imminent suicide on Christmas Eve gains the attention of his guardian angel, Clarence Odbody, who is sent to help him in his hour of need.

"It makes you think about what you have," Rayma said.

Michael Pommier -- "A Christmas Carol": Michael chose the 2004 made-for-television musical version (starring Kelsey Grammer) of the classic Charles Dickens novella of the same name.

"It makes you feel that there's a shred of hope for humanity," Michael said of the story's message.

Katie Hueston- "Miracle on 34th Street": Katie said she prefers the original 1947 film, which tells the story of what takes place in New York City following Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade as people are left wondering whether or not a department store Santa Claus might be the real thing.

"It's a really good family movie," Katie said.

Justin Messner and Jason Silvers -- "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation": The hilarious 1989 comedy stars Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold, who encounters one mishap after another while trying to plan the perfect Christmas for his family.

"I know the holidays are about inspirations, but I just enjoy laying back with my family and watching a classic holiday comedy," Justin said.

"To me, no Christmas movie that I've seen better portrays the average, ordinary suburbanite family and what they typically go through during the holidays when the whole family gets together," Jason said. "Plus, it's hysterical throughout."