As we enter the holiday season, lots of good things happen: hearts feel a little lighter, kindness becomes more common in our daily routines, and smiles grow a bit wider. We each experience the holidays in different ways; but no matter who you are, there’s always something to look forward to. I asked people of all ages what they’re most excited about for the holiday season. What they came up with are all little things that everyone should be looking forward to experiencing these next couple of weeks:

1. The combination of family…and some presents, of course.

2^nd/3^rd grade siblings:

“My cousins are coming over! Oh, and hopefully a cotton candy maker.”

“Yeah our cousins are really fun. But video games and nerf guns are also fun.”

2. Beautiful holiday decorations (from the people who are actually motivated enough to put them up).

High school student:

“Being with family and seeing all of the pretty lights.”

3. Getting excited about a new year, a new you, and maybe even a new bottle of champagne.

College student:

“I get excited about dreaming of how I’ll improve myself and the life I love—New Years gives me an excuse to do this. If I can talk about my goals with friends over a glass of champagne, then that’s all the better.”

4. Having time to see the “little nuggets" in your life.

3^rd grade teacher:

“Getting to spend time with my little niece. I challenge you to find something cuter.”

5. Spending as much time as possible doing what’s really important: eating.

Recent college graduate:

“I love seeing my family, but I think we also need to take some time to appreciate the fact that I don’t have to eat Top Ramen for another three weeks or so.”

6. Spreading Christmas cheer by singing loud for all to hear.

Middle school student:

“It’s so underrated, but Christmas caroling is one of my all-time favorite things to do during the holidays.”

7. Giving the best gifts ever.

40-year old:

“Watching someone open something that you’ve put a lot of thought into and seeing their face light up.”

8. Appreciating the intangible things.

70-year old:

“Oh gosh, honey, there’s lots. I’m just thankful for my health.”

9. Experiencing the last few minutes/seconds of the year.

4^th grader:

“My goal this whole year has been to stay up until midnight and watch the ball drop in Times Square.”

10. The most obvious choice of all.

3-year old:

“SANTA!”