Although my general response to being asked "what's your favorite holiday?" is "Halloween", the late November, early December collaborative mix of chilling weather, Christmas lights, and hot cocoa always temporarily changes my answer. Christmas is certainly one of the most wonderful times of the year. I've recently made a competition with myself to make each follow-up to Christmas a little bit more festive and traditional than the previous, ultimately feeling obligated to complete each item on the following list prior to December 24th.
1. Meander down fifth avenue while admiring the creative window displays.
2. Watch Home Alone with my sister at least five different times
3. Compile a Christmas playlist, always including River by Joni Mitchell (see below).
4. Assist my mom with her homemade fudge and indulge in the batter throughout the process.
5. Create handmade stocking-stuffers for my family members. This year it's soy candles in mercury glass bowls.
Happy Holidays!