It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

I am one of those people that love this time of year. Personally, there is nothing better than the smells of fall (pumpkin, spice, yummy food baking) and of course the beauty of outside. Living in the panhandle our little family doesn't really get to experience the change of color of the trees...since cedars don't change their color. That is one thing I took for granted growing up...the beauty of trees and outside this time of year. It is just beautiful. I just love this time of year. Thanksgiving is seriously my favorite holiday. I love the food and the fellowship. And the buzz that Christmas is so near. There really is nothing better. Everyone is happy (for the most part) and excited about the holiday season and Sirius Radio plays Christmas music 24/7. WONDERFUL!

So, as my house is full of Pumpkin Marshmallow and Cinnamon (thank you Scentsy) I am quickly decorating and baking in my head for Christmas. Yes, I know it is odd that Christmas isn't my favorite holiday. While, I love it and I dream of it all year long. It is just that once Christmas is here it is over and it makes me sad (I know this is sad). So, I love fall and the early set of winter simply because it is so fresh and I know Christmas is right around the corner.

Growing up Christmas was a big deal in my family. My parents made sure to make Christmas a big deal. I still remember spending hours making Christmas cookies and doing silly plays with my sister all in anticipation for Christmas. I remember the gifts I received, but that never stuck in my mind..it was the excitement of waking up on Christmas morning knowing that it was going to be such a special day filled with so much love.

That is why this is the most wonderful time of the year. We should be thankful for the life that we have and live. I was watching the Gabby Gifford's special the other night and this quote has stuck in my mind since then, "You don't live the life that you thought you would live." It is so right. Be thankful for the life that you do have. I am so excited to experience this holiday season with my family. I am excited for Callen to really get to experience all the joys of this time of year. But most importantly, I am excited that he too will get to experience the love that I remember so well growing up.