Just Around the Corner

I normally hate fall because it means winter is coming and I HATE freezing weather. Then I remember how much I loved it as a kid and I can't help but warm up to the cold weather. The holidays were so magical. I hope every kid had my experience. I had the picture perfect family. Every holiday we met at my grandparent's house and had an amazing time. I hope my kids and grandkids get to live the same magic I did. Christmas was the best. We would have dinner at Grandmas and Grandpas - Grandpa and I always decorated the tree weeks before. We set up tables made of old doors in the basement and for the longest time, the entire family fit at the table. We would then open presents, which looking back, is shockingly the part of the night that meant the least to me. After presents we would pile into the car and go look at Christmas lights. I will never forget one street that was incredible. The whole circle participated, one guy even set up Santa's Magical Kingdom in his garage. I LOVED watching that toy train make its rounds on the parameter of the garage. Then we would go home, say our goodbyes and my mom, dad, and I would walk back to our home next-door. It was perfect.

Now, for the first time in years, it is the first week of September and I am bubbling with excitement. I am thrilled to have apple cider, get ready for hayrides, pleased to drag Andrew to go apple picking, go to SEVERAL wineries, plot my pumpkin carving, and ready to shop to decorate the house!

Although I am cheating on this image (I took it last year and I'm pretty sure it has already appeared on this blog), I am very excited to enjoy the last day of August tomorrow and prepare to celebrate the fall!