I think it really is the most wonderful time of the year and my Christmas memories are nothing but warm and fuzzy.  My dad was something of a Clark W. Griswold when it came to Christmas growing up and I just loved the magic he created around our family during this time of year.  I am a self-proclaimed Christmas junkie.  I love the decorations, the get-togethers, the ugly sweater parties, the music, the reflection, the togetherness, the eggnog, the family traditions, the movies (Oh, the movies!)...I just eat it all up and feel like a little kid inside all over again.

That said, I have to admit:  It just doesn't feel like Christmas down here.  I can't put my finger on why, exactly, but something is missing.  The grocery store is playing Christmas music, there are decorations here and there around town, and some private homes even have lights...  I have been playing my Christmas playlist on a loop for the past week, watching Christmas movies each night, I've decorated the boat, and I've even done a little Christmas shopping, but it still doesn't feel the same.
But - because of this effort on my part - it is starting to feel a little like Christmas, and that makes me happy.   What makes it even better is the fact that I get to go home for the holidays this year!  Scott, unfortunately, will be captaining Diamant on their Christmas cruise, so we would have been apart anyway and the idea of spending Christmas in the harbor alone was a little depressing.  So... as the old song goes: I'll be home for Christmas, you can plan on me!
For once in my life I cannot wait to get home to the cold.
Love,
Brittany & Scott