Now that Halloween is long gone, it is time for the holiday season. What's not to love about the only time of year when almost everybody is a little happier, streets and buildings are lit up with decorations and the seemingly endless sound of jingle bells? Here are 14 things I love about the holiday season.
1. Black Friday shopping.
Although missing Thanksgiving dinner to go shopping may be horrible, something about going out that early in the morning and late at night to get to that dress you have been eyeing all year is so exciting.
2. Thanksgiving Dinner.
One word: Food.
3. Christmas cookies.
The holiday season seems to be the only time when it is socially acceptable to indulge in at least 12 different kinds of cookies a day.
4. Presents!
Giving and receiving presents is just a little extra fun this time of year.
5. The Starbucks holiday cups.
Even though there is a lot of controversy about these cups, seeing them everywhere is a reminder of the holiday season.
6. Winter clothes are actually the best clothes.
It is finally time to break out the soft sweaters and fuzzy socks.
7. Christmas movies.
If you don't love binge watching Christmas movies like "Elf" or "The Grinch," you are lying to yourself.
8. Sending and receiving Christmas cards.
I just love taking family coordinated pictures and seeing everyone else's!
9. Hot Chocolate.
Don't get me wrong, I think it is totally fine to drink hot chocolate at anytime in the year (in fact, I do,) but there's something about drinking hot chocolate on Christmas Eve by the fire.
10. Christmas trees.
The scent. The endless decorative combinations. The lights.
11. The music.
Yes, I am the girl that starts playing Christmas music on November 1st.
12. Seeing the extended family all together.
It may get a little chaotic at times, but it makes me realize how much I am loved and how much I love my family.
13. Setting goals for the new year.
Having a new year to reach your goals is just so empowering.
14. The New Year Countdown.
Counting down to the new year is quite the bittersweet time- it signifies the end of the holiday season, but there's nothing like the feeling of a fresh start to a year with endless possibilities.
The holiday season has to be the happiest time of year with some of the best things in life.