Christmas is right around the corner and I am not ready. Still have shopping to do. Need to put up Xmas tree and decorate. Need to send packages to family members. I know it will all get done, somehow. I can always count on my two favorite girls to see that it all does get done. I swear that this is the last year I will procrastinate as it pertains to getting prepared for Christmas.

I love this time of year. It’s cold outside. Can’t wait for the snow to fall each year. So happy to live in a locale that has 4 seasons. Don’t ever want to live in an area that doesn’t have 4 seasons. Christmas is supposed to be cold. Snug in your home as you write to Santa and ask for a few things.

This time of year makes me feel so blessed as I look around and see and read about those that are less fortunate than I. I have never had to go to bed hungry. I have never had to fight off the chill in the air as I lay down to sleep. I have never had to hope and pray that something good would happen for my Mom or Dad because they lost their job. I have never had to worry about being homeless. And, I have never had to experience not having Santa drop off some really cool stuff for me.

I don’t want this entry to turn into a preachy post. I just hope that anyone who reads it takes a moment or two and reflects. Reflect on your life. Your life as a child. Your experiences as a young adult. But especially I hope you reflect on how your life is now.

Are you thankful for what you truly have? I am not necessarily referring to your possessions. I am wondering if you are grateful for your spouse or your children? Do you find the time to let them know each and every day how very much you value them. Do you let them know you love them? Are you feeling blessed that you have food on your table every night? What about that car or truck in your driveway that is more than a few years old? Do you have a friend, a brother, or maybe a role model that you rely on and couldn’t replace if something happened to them?

Do you believe in Christmas? I am not talking about buying and giving presents. I am asking if you believe in goodness and random acts of kindness. Do you believe that sometimes things work out because people hope and ask for them to? Do you ever wonder if good things happen to good people? Do you believe in Karma and that your past deeds decide your present fate?

Do you believe in Santa? I know I do. I have always believed. Some days I believe more than others, but I always believe. This time of year I have an especially strong knowledge of his existence. The 3 images below prove to me that Santa is real and so are his reindeer.

Until next time,

Mark