The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

These are the perfect cookies for
a holiday party  in the South!

Yesterday was the first day that it felt wintry and Christmasy to me. I seems hard to get into the holiday spirit, partially because of the desensitization caused by Christmas decorations going up in October, but I think it's mostly due to the fact that the high temperature on December 1st was 73 degrees. This is not winter wonderland weather! (Don't be mistaken, that is not a complaint)

In the last few days it's gotten pretty chilly. And yes, it does actually get cold in Houston. It was in the mid 30s on my way to work this morning. Brr! As I was driving home last night, it was so crisp outside and darker than usual. This in combination with the lights on top of all of the office buildings and decorations in retail windows did it for me. It's almost Christmas!!! This was soon followed by the present panic. So many people and so few presents purchased... We are definitely behind on the present front this year in comparison to previous years, and I shall blame the lack of time and funds on the University of Houston.

I find that I get a kick out of the decorations here. I mean, who doesn't love lights on palm trees?! I still can't get over the fact that we live in a place that has palm trees - I feel like they're only for vacation, not for real places. 

Not only are there lights everywhere, but all of the cool kids put giant bows on top of their businesses. I can't even begin to imagine the electricity bill for this city in the winter. I love all of the decorations, but appreciate them more when they show up at the right time - after Thanksgiving. Nordstrom is even on the same page, which I can appreciate even though I don't ever shop there (let's be serious).

I'm starting to get excited for Christmas and our upcoming trip home! Even though it can be stressful, it can be equally awesome. Happy Holidays!