A Merry Little Christmas

Another Christmas has come and gone, but it was a merry one that we'll always remember. We completely Christmased out this year: Constant Christmas music in the house and car, multiple drives to see the Christmas lights at night, hot chocolate and coffee trips, Christmas movies galore, lots of family time, and a house full of lights, candles, and decorations. I'm pretty sure Aiden had a nice Christmas morning, too, if you can't tell by those happy faces.

There's always a very specific moment when I realize the season is in full swing. When the spirit of Christmas actually seems palpable. That moment came this year as I was strolling through Fresh Market. It was bustling with happy families picking up some final goodies for their holiday feast. I quietly and slowly ambled through the aisles, soaking up every wonderful scent that filled the air: roast coffee, fragrant flowers, fresh-baked bread, apple cider, you name it. I left with some chocolate-covered pretzels, a tuscan bread, and a huge orange swirled lollipop for Aiden's stocking. But most importantly, I left with a huge smile on my face and an ever-expanding heart. It's truly the most wonderful time of the year.

Hope you and yours had a lovely holiday as well! Time for 2012.