From the time I was little, this time of year has always been one of my favorites.  I enjoy the festivities – decorating, seeing Christmas lights, buying gifts, baking cookies, and watching Christmas movies.  And now with my toddler son, I am getting to see Christmas through his eyes, which is the sweetest part.  I had no idea how much fun it would be or how much happiness it would bring me to watch his face light up with joy.

This will be his first year where he really understands what’s going on – he’s beyond excited for Santa, gifts, chocolate kisses, etc.  On the way to school, we started singing Christmas songs, which makes the ride much more pleasant. We’ve been talking about things like getting a tree, visiting Santa, and doing some festive art projects at home.

In saying all this, it reminds me how much my son has grown over the past few years.  There will always be a part of me that misses the “baby” stage, but on the flip side this whole new world of communication has opened.  When he says, “You’re the best” in that cute voice of his, there is no greater compliment anyone could ever give me.  Or when he puts his sticky hands on my cheeks and looks in my eyes, my heart literally melts.  Not every day is easy or happy, but it’s these moments of pure, innocent toddler love that make every day worthwhile.

With Christmas around the corner, my plan is to have fun, enjoy the festivities, but not to stress about every detail or get too caught up in the hubbub.  I know this time of year can be difficult for a lot of people for a variety of reasons – my hope and prayer for them is that they can find some peace, and possibly a bit of joy too.  I’m realizing that the most important thing about the holidays is being with those you love – time really is the most precious gift, one that cannot be bought.