With Christmas fast approaching, I thought I'd sit down and talk about my favorite holiday activities and moments. I have a feeling they might be the same as yours too.

OK, even though I am atrociously bad at it, I actually really love wrapping gifts. Picking the perfect wrapping paper, spreading out in front of the tv, and wrapping all of the wonderful things you are so excited to give to your loved ones is one of the best feelings during the holidays. I always get really excited thinking about people opening the gifts I got them, knowing it's something they've wanted for awhile. 

You'd think with all of the practice I have had, I would be better at it, but I think I'll just have to accept the fact that it is not one of my skills. I still love it though.

Holiday baking ! Who doesn't love sweet Christmas treats? They're just the best. I even think we should make it socially acceptable to enjoy them all year-round. Peppermint bark in July? Why not!

I especially find joy in baking though. Making something that brings so much happiness to others is so rewarding. When people ask for your "special recipe" or to make them again, is even better. For me, it's holiday cookies. I love trying new things during Christmas. Our secret family recipe is for Honey cookies- a soft, sweet, anise cookie topped with the most delicate icing ever. I beg my mom to make them every year, but maybe it's time for me to learn?

Holiday drinks hmm. What is better than a toasty warm, seasonal latte after a very long day. With a chill in the air, and a lingering dark sky, there isn't much more in this world that I love more than sipping a hot cocoa, coffee, or tea while the world around me is quiet. You know the moment. That hot chai you have been thinking about all day, that you treat yourself with after class. The way each sip gets better and better? 

I can't wait to drink my weight in somoa chai and apple pie lattes this holiday season. Who's with me?

Holiday films. What's your favorite christmas movie? Mine is "It's a Wonderful Life." I first saw that movie in my fifth grade class and have loved it ever since. It is a timeless tale of love and family, and being thankful. All things we should reflect on more.

Some honorable mentions I'd have to say, are "Christmas Vacation," "Christmas with the Kranks," and "Home Alone." Anyone else excited to watch nothing but Christmas movies all month?!