I do so enjoy the Christmas season!  I don't like the crazy 'commercial' aspects of it that seem to have taken over this time of year.  I love the family time and fun with friends that reminds us all that relationships are more important than 'things'.  I love that our family has the gift-giving aspect of things down to a science.  We usually receive one gift from each other and a stocking.  Mom is a crazy stocking-o-holic!!  She fills them with so much that it ends up being a big bag instead of fitting into a sock.  This year, everyone's budgets are tight so we have agreed to ratchet back the stocking stuffers to a reasonable level.  We shall see if Mom can do that ☺

There are always lots of things going on at this time of year.  I am so excited about Friday night.  Years ago, Heath and I used to take my nieces to see the Nutcracker at the beginning of December.  It was our kick-off to the holiday season and the girls just loved dressing up and watching the ballet.  Then....they stopped showing the Nutcracker at the Capitol Theatre and my younger nieces never got to experience this special treat.  When I heard that it was on again at the Riverview Arts Centre, I jumped at the opportunity to take the girls again.  So, Friday night, Heather and I are taking Karissa and Clara (who are teenagers now but not too old to still enjoy this night out) as well as Selina, Annie and Sadie (who have never had the chance to see the live performance).  Gi and Josée are going with us as well as Heather's two roommates, Laura and Becca.  I have made up little gift bags for the younger girls with a small Nutcracker tree ornament and some sweet treats.  It should be a lovely evening with my special girls : - )

On Saturday, I will host the Annual Cookie Exchange.  Every year I question whether to do it again as it is yet another task that has to be completed for everyone and I hate to add any additional pressure to a busy season.  But everyone always asks when it is scheduled so I assume that they are keen to do it.  Some come just for the friendship and fellowship and don't bother with the cookies.  We enjoy a lovely brunch and get to take some delicious treats home!  Here is a picture from two years ago...I just realized that I didn't get a picture last year??

Even with all of the busy-ness and activity, I want to always remember that "Jesus is the reason for the season".  I know that some say that Christmas originally came out of a pagan holiday to celebrate the winter solstice but, to me, it is a celebration of Christ's birth and always will hold that meaning for me.