Also known as the most wonderful time of the year, Christmas time is merry in every which way. There are so many reasons why people from all over the world enjoy celebrating this special holiday and here are some of the reasons why I do...

I get to spend time with my family

The holidays are a time when everyone celebrates being together. There is so much joy in everyone's hearts and it is a time for love to flourish. Coming home from school and spending time with my family is a real treat. Getting together on the holiday with grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles is where the Christmas joy is.

Everyone acts nicer to each other

It's the time for giving and being jolly. People may just want to land their spot on the nice list for this Christmas.

25 Days of Christmas

The best thing to ever happen to Freeform. I remember lying on the couch with my family every night cuddling up and watching whatever holiday movie that would be gracing us with its spirit and joy.

Christmas Lights

It all started when I was little and my parents took me driving throughout the neighborhood to see all of the outdoor Christmas decorations. It brightens up the nighttime darkness and really makes Christmas a beautiful time of the year.

Baking and cooking

Isn't the smell of cookies baking in the oven wonderful? Working with my family in the kitchen to make any kind of recipe is special to me because I love the feeling of togetherness... and food.

Christmas cards

I love keeping up with family from all over. Seeing all the little kids grow up throughout the years is so cute and makes me feel so old.

Decorations

As a family, we dedicate a whole day to putting out decorations for Christmas. From the Nutcrackers, the Nativity, and the garlands, to the Christmas tree and every mistletoe in between, I love it when the finished product looks like a Christmas extravaganza!

Candles

The smell of Christmas comes in many different scents. Yankee Candle scents that is. Christmas cookie, White Christmas, Mistletoe, Balsam & Cedar, Sparkling Snow, Gingerbread... all so merry!

The Rockefeller Tree

For anyone who lives in the New York/New Jersey area, this is a common yearly day trip for you. If not, I'm sure you've at least heard of it or seen pictures. Going with family, friends, or a loved one is so fun, even though it is crowded for weeks before and after Christmas.

Music

Classics, remixes, anything gets me in the Christmas spirit! I'm one of those people who does not put a time frame on when to listen to Christmas music. It could be July and I could turn up the tunes. But once December hits, the meaning turns heartfelt and I notice everybody enjoying the music that I have kept so dear to my heart.

Fires

Cuddling up by the fire, listening to Christmas music with a big blanket and some hot chocolate. Doesn't that sound like the life? That and some magical stories or watching a Christmas movie would be an ideal December night.

Faith

Believe in the magic of Christmas! Whether it's believing in Santa Clause or having religious faith and attending mass with your family during the holidays to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, faith is having something to believe in and that is one of the main aspects of the holiday season. Watching a young child talk about Santa Clause could be the whole reason why this tradition is passed along all these years because there is something to believe in.

Traditions

Every family has something different they do to celebrate the holidays. The night before Christmas, my siblings and I always sprinkle reindeer food compiled of oatmeal and sprinkles on our front lawn so Santa's reindeer come so Santa would stop by. When I have children of my own, I will pass along these little traditions because I know how much I have enjoyed them and I would like to share pieces of myself with others.

Giving (& receiving)

The gift of giving is one of the most selfless things about Christmas time. The purpose is to think about others and be wholesome. Sure, you do get presents of your own, which is really nice and awesome when you get to open them Christmas day with joy and excitement on your face, but watching your family open presents Christmas morning and being together as a family is such a delight.