As the Christmas season comes and goes I like to reflect on all the many blessings that I've received in the past year, including the greatest blessing of all, the birthday of Jesus.

Every Christmas Eve my family goes to the service at my church. I always love seeing the families that I haven't seen in a while for whatever reason and especially enjoy reconnecting with people now that I am home from college for the holidays. The kids are in their pajamas and people come in their Christmas attire ready to worship.

As a member of the congregation lights the Candle of Christ we can reflect on the hope, joy, peace and love that the Lord continues to give us despite our flaws. As I grow older, Christmas is less about Santa Clause and presents and more about the celebration of life of our Savior. As families get together with laughter, love and good food, I become grateful for all the things that the spirit of Christmas comes with.

1. Warmth

Whether you are sitting next to a fireplace or drinking hot cocoa, there is a feeling of warmth surrounded by Christmas cheer.

2. Dessert

You can't have Christmas dinner without a delicious dessert.

3. Football

Knowing that the Superbowl is being played in February you can expect for there to be playoff games around the time of Christmas. With Christmas falling on a Sunday, I was able to watch my favorite team, the Pittsburgh Steelers, beat the Baltimore Ravens during a division rivalry game. Not only was it Christmas Day, but game day as well.

4. Traditions

Every family has their traditions whether it's opening a single present on Christmas Eve, a specific movie you watch on Christmas Day or what you have for breakfast the morning of Christmas.

5. Nativity Scenes

I don't know what exactly it is about the nativity scene, but I love it. I love seeing crafts that kids make of the nativity and ornaments that are hand painted. I was even given a sweet and simple gift by my little this year of the nativity scene that I'm going to keep on my desk all year because the birth of baby Jesus should always be in our thoughts.

6. Family

I know that with family dinners come family drama and some conversation topics always seem to sneak their way in, but overall the holidays are a time to be with our loved ones. This year, there were many laughs and hugs at Christmas.

7. Egg Nog, Hot Chocolate and Apple Cider

Who can pass up a sip of their favorite holiday drink?

8. Christmas Music

Whether you are caroling or playing music in the background while baking, Christmas songs are the best. For years, my family has started our Christmas season shortly after Thanksgiving by listening to NSYNC Christmas, but no worries we are also big fans of Michael Buble's Christmas album.

The list goes on and on, but those are some of my favorite things this time of year.