November 7

I know plenty of people who cringe and groan at the idea of Christmas trees showing up in early November, but I'm not one of them. I like the season and I enjoy stretching it out. (I'm even watching a cheesy Hallmark Christmas movie as I type.)

There's so much ugliness in the world that it's a blessing to me to see a symbol of happiness and peace in a public space. So when I saw this at the mall this afternoon, I smiled --and not just to myself-- and stopped to take a photo. So much of the holiday season is what we choose to make of it, and though trees and bright lights aren't the true reason for the celebration, they lift my spirits and make me remember good times with family and friends.