Tis the Season

I know, I know. 

It's only mid-October. But I cannot help it. I'm a sucker for the holiday season. From the beginning of October, I've got a little sparkle in my eye as I decorate for "Fall-oween," with pumpkins and pretty leaves and scented candles. I play Christmas music in November, a tradition my spouse has come to, ahem, tolerate. I start Christmas shopping this month, and I start asking my sisters what their kids might like from Santa. And, I'm sure, my sisters roll their eyes at my questions, because sane people don't start shopping—or even talking about shopping—this early. 

But I'm not deterred. I love every minute of it, and those minutes fly by so quickly! Before I know it, its late December and I'm in mourning for the anticipation, which is what its all about for me. I love making lists, making plans, making (and eating!) pies, and making myself nuts when my plans outgrow my pocketbook. 

What I wish for most this year is that All Our Siblings (and we have more than ten...) would join us in giving to a worthy cause instead of giving each other presents. With so many families in need this year—families that until this year never set foot in a food shelf—we'll be donating cash and food to our local Second Harvest. Last year, my sister joined us in our effort to help others. We sent fun stuff for the kidlets, and gave our time and energies to local and global charities. I know I'm guilty of forcing my opinion on others, and at this time of year I'm no different. I want everyone to make the same choices that I do. I'm bossy that way. But I also know in my heart of hearts that this season is about each of us reaching out in our own way. Maybe one of these days I'll actually behave like a grown-up. 

Another of my favorite holiday activities is reading stories about this time of year. I love to read history, to learn how people celebrated in years past. I also love to find little gems, examples of how other families have lived through this time of year. I recently read a story that made me sob. While we are young, this season is all about that new sled, new X-Box, new game, and new toys. As we grow older, we realize that this time of the year is really about our hearts. 

And lots and lots of pie.