It looks like winter is here! The official first day of winter is December 21 but if you were to look outside, you would know it's winter! The cold temperatures and all the snow predicted ensures us a Bing Crosby style Christmas. I know my kids are thoroughly excited to play in the snow and I, for one, will enjoy this winter blast...for now. Our tree is fully decorated, I am continually trying to sneak moments to wrap presents and baking between it all! I love Christmas and am looking forward to spending time with the family. With all of the excitement for the day, my very favorite time is at the end of the night; the kids are laying on the floor watching a Christmas movie, my husband and I relaxed on the couch and all just seems right with the world. So, a week from today I will be doing just this. I am curious as to everyone else's favorite holiday moment... No matter the holiday that you celebrate, I wish you and yours a very happy holiday season and a wonderful New Year.

My, oh my, 2008 has flown by! The holiday season is here and I find myself trying to cram everything on my calendar into a few short weeks. Shopping, wrapping, baking and decorating added to my already busy life.

However, one thing I make time to do is spend time with my family. My kids, as much as they may be a pain, are the loves of my life. So, when all the fun and festive events come around during the holidays, I make it a point to make a family outing.

This weekend is the Holiday Balloon Fest and I know my kids are anxiously awaiting the celebration…as am I! This is the 10th year of the festival that will take place at Kellogg Community College. To celebrate, there will be a great fireworks display on Saturday!

I’ll be bundling up the kids and taking them to experience one of my favorite holiday events and hope to see you there! Please be sure to take pictures and upload them to the CVB site! You will remain as anonymous as you want so don’t be afraid to share! www.battlecreekvisitors.org/photo_submit.cfm