'twas the night

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There is magic in the chilly air. There is happiness and joy dancing around. Christmas lights are twinkling. Trees are sparkling with ornaments, old and new. Jingle Bells is playing, and although I've heard it a thousand times, it doesn't lose it's charm. Cookies are baking in the oven, filling the house with a sugary aroma. Presents are wrapped delicately under the tree just begging to be opened. I'm surrounded by so much love. It is the eve of Christmas, and it's one of my favorite days of the year.

There are so many memories tied around this holiday season. As a little girl, my family and I would sit by the fireplace. I loved the crackling sound and the smell of wood hitting me in warm waves. We would watch It's a Wonderful Life. The black-and-white classic grew on me as I aged. I think began to understand the lessons it held. I still have that movie, thanks to my dad. Afterwards, we would sit in silence in the glow of the fire. We would open one small gift before bed. It served as a teaser for what the morning had in store. It was so hard to sleep this night. My ears were perked for the sound of bells and reindeer hooves clip-clopping on the roof. I would finally doze off, with hopes Santa would enjoy the cookies I set out.

Everyone has different traditions, and they change as we get older and begin to form our own families. This year, I am spending Christmas Eve with my wonderful love, and the family we have built with our two pups. We get to create our own traditions, and combine our past ones. I've never felt so blessed.

I hope that wherever you are and whoever you are with, you make memories and traditions that will last a lifetime. Enjoy this special night.

 

Merry Christmas Eve.