holidays

Can you believe the holidays are already here? I sure can't. And actually, the last few years never seem like the holidays when they come around. Maybe that is just a part of getting older...Who knows.

I wish I still got in "the spirit" like I did was a kid, but I just can't really bring myself to do it. I am not a fan of Christmas music much at all. Being cold all the time is annoying. The food haunts me, for I fear gaining weight. (haha)

I do love being with my family, the warmth from the fireplace, the coffee hot chocolate (my famous recipe, I'll share below,) and the thrill of seeing everyone so excited.

The world has really cultivated the holidays in a way I really don't like. They seem to come earlier and earlier every year, just so businesses can take advantage and make more money. Heck, Christmas things were up at Wal-Mart the day after halloween.

I also don't like how the focus has become so materialized. I believe that Christmas is meant to be celebrated because of Jesus' birth. And it makes me sad that it has become so much about "stuff."

I won't go any further into that, but I definitely think I am going to try and keep my focus on the real reason.

Anyway, I do happen to kind of like some Christmas movies. My family always watches Chevy Chase's Christmas Vacation, A Christmas Story, and Elf. They are all so funny and it's so fun to watch them and laugh with my family.

I really miss having that childlike wonder when the holidays come around. But, I really do think it fades with age, unfortunately. Oh well....I'll do my best to be positive and stay cheery and appreciate this season; after all..it only does come once a year.

AMAZING COFFEE/HOT CHOCOLATE RECIPE:
okay, it is super simple....but I am mildly obsessed with it.

-2 parts coffee, 1 part vanilla light soymilk
-stir in a hot cocoa packet (I use Swiss Miss Diet Hot Cocoa, it is 25 calories!)
-microwave for 15 seconds since the soymilk cooled it a bit

Enjoy!