MY GROWN-UP CHRISTMAS LIST

Someone asked me what I wanted for Christmas.

Quite honestly, I can't think of a thing. Instead, this is what I want: a traditional Christmas.

I want a Christmas that's beautiful where everyone comes together and the real meaning overshadows commercialism. It was how it was when I was a child. Brightly-wrapped boxes that contained my presents were always great and intriguing, but to me it was the lights, the Saturday Christmas Parades, the church Christmas plays, and the togetherness of family.

So, if you ask, this is what I want for Christmas. I want each and every one of you well, and healthy, and doing well financially. I want us all to love one another and remember that anything is possible. Yes, this is what I want, and quite honestly I wouldn't have it any other way. 

Who wants to join me?

A WINTER'S MULLING

I have a new favorite winter tradition to share with you awesome guys and gals.

Since it's cold outside, my household every December, and even on into January, is filled with the smell of mulling spices: squeezed oranges, their juices and rinds, dried cranberries, cinnamon sticks, ground cloves, ground pumpkin spice, and ground allspice all soaking in a black pot of boiling-hot water.

How does it smell? Oh, so good!

BIRDS OF A FEATHER FLOCK TOGETHER

Christmastime is very special around the Favorite Things House. 

If I'm not getting together last-minute ornaments to put on the tree, my wonderful fiance is decorating everything: from the mantle to our front door. Yes, everything is always done bright and cheerful in sincere yuletide spirit.

There's something about this time of year I always felt was magical. It's like you can't help but wonder what comes to life when every one's gone to bed. I think it's the congregation of yuletide birds that adorn my mantle. If you listen closely while tucked in bed you almost hear them humming a Christmas tune...or perhaps they're resting before they retreat to their nests, or perhaps they're talking about the fierce Winter...or maybe they're discussing where they bought their clothes.

Who knows?

All I know is they look pretty-darn cute and festive on my mantle. Don't you think?