In what feels like the blink of an eye, the holidays are already almost here. Thanksgiving will come and go faster than we know it and soon, we'll be gearing up for the Christmas season.

One of the best parts of the holidays, as we all know, is the food. However, for those of us who try to be mindful of what we consume over the holidays, it can be hard when we're faced with tables full of deliciously tempting food. If there's one thing I believe in during the holidays (besides Santa, of course), it's that calories don't count during this festive season, and here are 15 reasons why:

1. The food is great.

2. ...and you don't want it to go to waste.

3. You worked so hard to make the food,

4. ...as did your relatives (and you wouldn't want to insult them by not eating it).

5. You don't want to have to throw away leftovers.

6. A few days of treating yourself won't do any harm.

7. ...nor will it ruin a year's worth of hard work.

8. It's sweater season, anyway.

9. ...so why not conceal your food baby with a sweater for a few weeks?

10. If the nutritional value doesn't accompany the dish, there aren't any calories...right?

11. It's socially acceptable to eat until you fall asleep on the couch surrounded by family.

12. You deserve to enjoy the holidays for what it is-- a time to connect with family and friends over delicious food and drinks.

13. You'll ruin the holidays by obsessing over your latest diet.

14. Salad is likely the healthiest option available, and nobody wants to eat that with SO much else to choose from.

15. You'll have plenty of time to work off the calories in the new year.