December Has Arrived

Can you believe it is already December? Where did 2016 go?

Folks around Jasper County got a jump on decorating for Christmas as there were plenty of homes with outdoor lighting and Christmas trees up for Thanksgiving. Of course, local stores have had Christmas merchandise on their shelves since Halloween. Some will agree with the song, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.”

Each December we vow to not put on 10-15 pounds, but who can resist the holiday foods at parties and dinners. Everyone has their special dessert to bring to these affairs, coconut cake, rum balls, pecan pies, and fruitcake. Yes, there are those who do like fruitcake. Let the feasting begin.

Gifts. Shopping for others can be stressful. Psychologists tell us that we buy for others what we really want. That can be an advantage if they forget and regift it to you later. Think of a favorite gift you received. Personally, I always buy myself a gift. Hey, it’s a guarantee you’ll like it.

Christmas cards will start arriving. Some will be from old friends that reconnect only through their cards. Some will send a Christmas newsletter detailing the family happenings throughout the year. Some will have pictures included or may be a picture made into a card.

May your holidays be filled with wonderful memories! It’ll be 2017 before you know it.