december delights...

the pacific northwest winter blew onto the calendar a few weeks ago. some rain at first, turning the fallen autumn leaves into sludgy piles of dark earthen brown.

the clouds gave way, however, to abundantly clear blue skies in recent days. a deep chill in the air but the promise of no rain for the next week is truly fabulous. i love the richness of the winter air -- it's as though it has something to say but cannot quite find the words so it just lingers with you.

after a decade or more, i re-watched The Sound of Music with some friends recently. The film is often broadcast during the holiday season so we decided to settle in for an evening with a bowl of popcorn and experience this musical extravaganza once again. not since performing in a stage production of the story had i sang along to classics like 'my favorite things' or 'i have confidence'. those words sure stick in your mind, though. i wish i could remember my computer passwords that well...

the film reminded me of a few important lessons as well. the power of intention, the true measure of talent, and the act of genuine surrender to experiences far greater than oneself. not too shabby for an evening of TV watchin'...now on to the real world application of these lessons!

and now for a few of my favorite december delights...

Scarves: the autumn and winter months are not complete without a scarf lingering around my neck. warm, soft, of every texture and color, scarves are my clothing's constant companion.

Hot Drinks: there is nothing so lovely as a hot drink in my hands. Coffee, tea, cocoa, or something a bit stronger is just the perfect treat on a winter day.

Holiday Cards: i must admit i adore receiving holiday cards far more than sending them. it is always so fun to see the pictures, hear the stories, and learn something new a far-off loved one has experienced in 2011.

The Grinch: Hilarious. Misunderstood. His devilish grin. The part where his heart grows in size makes me laugh and cry at the same time. Funnily enough, the Grinch always reminds me how to become a better person.

Christmas Trees: these beautiful pieces of nature are truly one of my hallmark joys during this holiday season. the smell of a douglas fir is simply tremendous. finding the perfect size, hauling it into the house, decorating with twinkly lights, arranging gifts beneath its boughs, and lounging in the dark beside it listening to frank sinatra sing the winter blues. truly, what is better?

i could go on...but as the song says, these are just a few of my favorite winter things.

your turn...what is one thing/experience you eagerly anticipate this holiday season?