Dear Santa,

I have come to find out that there are certain Christmas traditions or aspects of the season that I just don't particularly care for. One, why do families feel that this is the only appropriate time of the year to sit down and write an extremely long letter to friends who you see maybe once a year. You know what I mean, those letters that tell about everyone in their family and where they are and what they're doing. And there is always a family photo (pets included) that accompanies the letter. I don't understand why people don't write to others during the rest of the year and instead choose Christmas to get back in touch. Perhaps they feel guilty that they have not kept in contact. Regardless, it seems like a ridiculous tradition. Other parts of Christmas I can't seem to enjoy include eggnog, receiving any sort of clothing, and those who try and go above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to gift giving. A simple and heartfelt gift is always best, isn't it? (see "Gift of the Maggi")

Now if you're reading this and thinking that I am nothing more than and modern day scrooge, you are mistaken. This is my favorite season of the year! When else do you get to play in the snow, really enjoy hot chocolate, care for others more than yourself, and get to spend time with those you love? I just happen to think of Christmas in a special way. In fact I always imagine Christmas the same. Sitting, watching movies like A Charlie Brown Christmas, The Grinch, and A Muppet Christmas Carol. Classics. Christmas to me is going out to on Christmas Eve to the candlelight service at my church, and then spending the next half hour driving around looking at Christmas lights. Yes, I am 23 and my family still drives around admiring the bright glowing decorations that adorn the homes in our small community.

That's what I enjoy most. It's the regularity that the season brings. It may be the same old thing every year, but that is what makes it special. You can rely on it. You can depend on it. There will never be a "Year Without a Santa Clause," or a year without being reminded how blessed you are and offering thanks for getting you through another year. This year, for me, will be a very special year. It will be the first year I am away from my family, and while I will make the drive home for Christmas Eve and the wonderful days to follow, I am filled with anticipation for the time I will spend here on campus. I will see a few friends, but I will also have time alone, to quietly reflect on the year and how extremely blessed I am. This Christmas I hope to spend time with special friends and strengthen my friendship and show them how much I care for them. It is going to be a wonderful holiday season for me. And I hope it is for you as well!