Christmas Time is Here!!

Every year around this time, you notice people start getting into the holiday spirit. The lights are going up all over the houses, the malls have kids lined up to see Santa, and the UPS man starts working overtime. Yes, it is that time of year once again.

This time last year I felt the weight of the world on my shoulders. My son’s birthday is less than a week before Christmas and along with all the school and work functions, December tends to be a little overwhelming. I had additional pressure a year ago when my new boss of one month decided my position was no longer needed and on the day before Thanksgiving, I found myself packing my belongings. In addition to that, I was 7-months pregnant.

Yes, this time last year was extremely stressful but like everything else in my life, we some how made it through. The tree was lined with gifts, the refrigerator was full of vittles, and my spirits were up. There’s something about the holiday season that can either bring immense joy or intense pain. I’ve been on the latter end of the spectrum before but since having kids, I’ve found a new sense of happiness around the holidays.

Many people have their traditions such as tree trimming parties or not decorating until after Thanksgiving --- whatever it is, it is a benchmark that says the time has come. For me, it’s not holiday season time until I’ve heard that one song that I’ve heard my entire life. So many Christmas songs remind me of my childhood and take me to a happy place but there is one song that tells me it is officially the season --- “This Christmas” by Donny Hathaway.

After I dropped my boy off at school this morning I heard it and it was like receiving the green light to pull out the decorations and bring home the tree. “This Christmas” is my indicator that it is the most wonderful time of the year and that I must start moving full speed ahead because the countdown is own. Children aren’t sleeping well these nights in anticipation of the 25th of December. I can make them do whatever I want right now because they know they have to be on their best behavior at least until Christmas day.

Ahhhhh, the sweet smell of Christmas. Now I must go and dig out those lights. Have you gotten into the holiday spirit? What is your benchmark?