I'd like to call myself a Christmas expert since it is most definitely my favorite holiday! So grab a glass of hot cocoa and settle in to see why Christmas really is the most wonderful time of the year!

1. Sweater weather

As someone who has spent a lot of her Christmases in warm weather, I still take advantage of the December excuse of “sweater weather”. Even if it’s a toasty 80 degrees, no one can judge you for a festive holiday sweater because, well, it’s Christmas.

2. The sweets

I am a baking fanatic with a big sweet tooth, so I understand that Christmas is not just a great way to showcase your cooking skills, but also taste-test the skills of others.

3. Giving

You don’t have to spend hours in stores to enjoy the spirit of giving. Simple things like cards, food, and homemade gifts allow you to express gratitude and love for those in your life.

4. Getting

It’s nice to know you’re appreciated, and when that is communicated through a sweet gift, it’s even better!

5. The movies

Some of the most classic movies are centered around Christmas: It’s a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Carol, and, we can never forget, The Grinch.

6. Quality time among friends and family

Nothing like hanging out in the living room with those you love, the Christmas tree quietly glimmering in the corner and probably a hot chocolate in your hand.

7. The music

Christmas carols, or celebrity Christmas albums, either way, there’s plenty of music to choose from and there’s probably a Christmas song for your taste.

8. The decorations

I don’t know if you all have noticed, but Christmas decorations have become so variable. You could do modern, chrome, classic, hand-made, woodsy… the list could go on. Plus, we can’t forget about all the houses being *lit*!

9. The parties

For some reason, places that wouldn’t normally throw parties (like offices) like to have Christmas parties, which is all good and fun (especially when someone breaks out Christmas karaoke and eggnog).

10. The smells

I, for one, am a HUGE fan of the smell of pine, and Christmas cookies, and candy canes, and basically any *good* smell you may associate with Christmas (and you don’t even have to get them in candle form!).

11. The cheesy photos

Honestly, what is better than getting dressed up in some ugly Christmas sweater with family or friends in front of a Christmas tree and sending them out? Are they incredibly cliche and cheesy? Yes. Is it still fun and quasi-adorable? Yes.

12. The magic

Whether you’re hoping for ole St. Nick to come down the chimney, or for your crush to accidentally bump into you under the mistletoe, the small wishes we make during this time of year leave a little bit of magic in our hearts.

So go out and have a wonderful Christmas season everyone!