Today: It’s (finally) beginning to look a lot like Christmas.

If I had it my way (and all the time in the world), I would begin decorating for Christmas in September.  And not finish until June.  Despite getting a later start this year on all things Christmas, I am soaking up all the sparkly and shine while it lasts.

The holiday season makes me inexplicably happy.  Joyful, even.  On my way to a meeting earlier this week, I was stuck behind a man who was walking slowly, but whistling “Frosty the Snowman” loudly.  Were this any month but December, I’d be annoyed, and pass him as soon as the opportunity presented itself.  (Side note: the whole idea of a snowman coming to life, let alone getting married?  So creepy.)

Instead, I found myself smiling about that moment for the rest of the day.  I get the same perma-smile from cars whipping around with Christmas trees tied to the roof, tacky holiday decorations in our neighborhood (my feeling: the tackier, the better… as long as it’s on someone else’s house), holiday stamps, fake Santas taking calls from children on the radio… you get the point.

And I find myself being a kinder, more gentle, more patient version of me this time of year (save for the random outbursts of pregnancy-related ‘tude).  I notice it in other people too.  It’s really quite lovely.

I’m also more aware this time of year than any other how much I have to be grateful for.  While the twinkly lights and warm Santa socks are nice, I know how lucky I am to have a husband who is just plain incredible and a healthy baby on the way, family and friends who love and care for me, a safe and comfortable place to live, plenty to eat, good health, a fulfilling career, and the freedom and flexibility to make all kinds of choices.

I have so much, and so it feels as important as ever do what I can with what I have– whether that’s time, money, or donated goods.  Perhaps you’ll join me in supporting a cause, organization, or program that you find compelling?  A few suggestions, if I may:

In and around Boston

• The Greater Boston Food Bank
• Franciscan Hospital for Children
• Boston Healthcare for the Homeless Program
• The Women’s Lunch Place
• The Home for Little Wanderers

National and International

• Whole Planet Foundation
• Every Mother Counts
• CTC International
• Global Giving Foundation
• American Red Cross

It really is the most wonderful time of the year.

Also On Tap for Today:

• Breaking out the best Christmas movie of all time
• Attention fellow procrastinators: Julie posted some great ideas for DIY food gifts you can make today
• Yoga in the baby’s room 🙂

How are you celebrating the season?