Dear Universe,

It’s that time of year.  The sun is setting earlier.  The first snow fell in the northeast.  The winter drinks have returned to Starbucks.

I feel like it was only days ago that I noticed the fall drinks were here.

Now I like the winter drinks, I do—so I am not necessarily sad about this development.  But the change of weather and change of menu has me prepared for what’s next.

The Holiday Bonanza.

The holidays can bum me out.  I know they can get a lot of people bummed out.

But standing in line at Starbucks and seeing the sign, “The wait is over.  Let the joy begin,” made me think that maybe I need a whole new approach to this time of year.

After all, there are things I love about this time of year too.

To start, Thanksgiving is less than two weeks away and I can’t wait.  A day of giving gratitude?  Of course it’s always been my favorite.

There’s the quality time with family and friends.  There’s the holiday music that is nice to hear (in small doses).  There’s the quintessential movies I have to watch around this time of year.  Home Alone brings back memories of growing up as does National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and my absolute  can’t miss?  When Harry Met Sally is perfect for the final days of the year.

And yes, there’s the idea of a new year just around the corner.  It’s a hope for a fresh start, a time to look forward and dream about the coming year.

So maybe I shouldn’t be looking towards the holidays with anxiety, worries or sadness.  Maybe I need to focus on all the positive around me, let go and let the joy begin.

Thank you for the sign.

With Gratitude,

A