“Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens,
Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens;
Brown paper packages tied up with strings,
These are a few of my favorite things.”

We all know these famous words from the 1965 musical “Sound of Music.”

Of course, my mind wondered what some of my top favorite things would be. Hmm.

1. Sitting in my recliner with the heating element on in the sunshine reading a book
2. Sitting in the same chair writing a blog
3. Watching a movie while enjoying a bowl of popcorn
4. Taking a walk with my pup in the sunshine
5. Connecting with friends over a scrumptious meal
6. Talking to friends or family over the phone
7. Listening to Rachmaninoff and/or Grieg’s piano concertos
8. Lying on the floor snuggling with my pup
9. Taking naps wrapped in a cozy blanket
10. Eating any cookie ever made
11. Soaking in a warm bath
12. Singing and/or playing piano or autoharp

As this holiday season starts to accelerate, and you fill your calendar with extra parties, buying and wrapping presents, mailing packages, writing Christmas cards, baking cookies, and preparing special meals, take a moment for yourself. Take some time to enjoy the Christmas lights, beautiful music, the warmth of loved ones, and the true meaning of Christmas. Take a moment to do one of your favorite things. Perhaps, for fun, (no stress or obligation), write your favorite things down and see how many of them you can do during this busy, busy, busy time. For in this way, you’ll be giving yourself the most precious gift of all, love. Take a moment to enjoy the pure bliss of Christmas for in this way, you will change the way you see and change the way you live.