I love the Holidays for all of the typical reasons. I enjoy the time with family, the delicious food, and the glowing faces of my children as they open gifts. I love what Christmas represents to me as a Christian. However, there are other reasons that have caused me to fall deeper in love with the season.

My husband and I are classic procrastinators. This shared attribute isn't a bad thing when you also struggle with decision making. We've tried to shop in advance. It proved to be a miserable attempt. We over-analyzed ever gift idea. So, we get everything done over a hurried three day shopping spree and make excellent purchases in the process. This sounds painful, but it's quite enjoyable for us.

Our two children our obsessed with their uncle and quite rightly. He is a fantastic uncle. Our kids never need an excuse to go to his house. He is always willing to lend a helping hand during our shopping frenzy. We run a family business and are around our family most of the time. Not only is this time to get things accomplished, but our time together.

Away we go, stopping only for drinks. We talk about our families, the varying personalities, and hilarious gift ideas. Pick out gifts, swipe the card, load the car, drive. Repeat. Sounds painfully repetitive doesn't it?

The in-between time is what counts. Our time in the car alone has always been my favorite. We bond over music and the classic "where do you see yourself in ten years" conversations. Our lives unfold before us and we experience a new level of intimacy. As stressful as the Holidays seem, I revel in these moments.

Yet another reason I love it is my time alone when I shop. It doesn't hit me at the time. I'm busy doing and don't stop to think about how much I enjoy my time. I was reminded of this today. I was on my way home. "And It Stone Me" by Van Morrison came on my playlist. I felt myself close my eyes and relax my body. I realized how good it felt to be alone and unhurried as I browsed. I knew I'd soon be home and swept up in a whirlwind of chores. I really embraced that moment "and it stoned me to my soul" as Mr. Morrison said. 

I reflected on this past year, all the good and bad of it. I counted my blessings and prayed that 2016 does well for our family. I also gained more understanding of what it is about this time of year I love so much. It's the increased intimacy I experience with both my husband and myself. It's the time I spend reflecting on all of the people I love and who have impacted my life. It's the time I prepare for the year to come and dream of the future with my man. It's the time of my life, Christmas time.