So I know this is more of a generic post--but I just had to do it. You see I love--and I mean LOVE Christmas time! The Christmas music officially goes on on Thanksgiving Day and doesn't stop until New Year's. I even like going to the crowded stores to shop--it just adds to that special feeling in the air.

The spirit started when I was little --my sister and I would always dress up in the same Christmas pajamas on Christmas Eve and sleep in the same bed. We weren't allowed to wake up our parents until 7 in the morning to open presents. Of course WE would wake up at 5 in the morning! And we would have to lay there for what seemed like all of eternity tyring to guess what was waiting for us under the tree! Another cool little tradition my mom started --she would buy each of us a new ornament every Christmas since we were born so when we moved out we would have enough to start our own tree. I have every kind of ornament from Strawberry Shortcake to Papa Smurf! Every year --and I mean every year-- from when I was five through college --we would also go into Washington DC to see The Nutcracker Ballet and then go over to the National Christmas Tree.

As I've gotten older I've started my own traditions one of which is an annual Christmas Party. This will be the seventh year in a row!! I just love picking out a tree and decorating the whole house--although I must admit I'm trying to bribe one of my photographers to come over this weekend and hang all my lights on the outside!

This year I am especially excited to go home for Christmas--because I've had to stay here for the past two. My sister and I always wrap presents on Christmas Eve--we try to outdo each other every time with the most creative wrapping. On Christmas Day we always spend most of the day at my Uncle Don and Aunt Brenda's house--where we eat--drink wine--play games(that can get pretty intense!!)--then drink some more wine--and finish off with more food at the end of the night! And for the first time in years--my mother got us tickets to go see The Nutcracker again while I'm home.

So those are just some of the reasons why it has always been that special time of year for me--and I'd like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas!