November 1st. A day I thought would be like any other day at Walmart. A day where I planned to go dashing through the isles grabbing as much 50% off Halloween candy as possible, because that is my idea of true success. But lo and behold, as I walk through the garden center I am thwarted by rows and rows of...CHRISTMAS TREES. Yes, the day after Halloween, Christmas trees. Trees of every shape, size, and color, decorated with lights, or fake snow, or even both. But not just trees, oh no. Blow ups and ornaments and wreaths and garland. Not kidding. I haven't even thought about Christmas yet; we haven't even made it to Thanksgiving. I go to the candy section and it's already full of Christmas candy.

I realize at this point that Christmas is officially in full swing, which makes me incredibly full of joy. I mean, at present, there are only 40 days until Christmas, but who's counting, right? In my opinion, I respect all of those early-Christmas haters, and I do agree that we do get ready for Christmas rather quickly. But I also like to enjoy Christmas as much as possible and for as long as possible. By this point, I have already seen Christmas movies playing on TV and even a house with Christmas lights up, which may or may not been left up since last year. I've already seen tweets of people talking about listening to Christmas music, and I have already had two Chick-fil-a peppermint milkshakes sure to change the minds of all early Christmas haters across the country...but more raving about those will happen later.

I agree that we shouldn't be pulling out our Christmas sweaters in November, but I don't mind a little holiday spirit. Once the busyness of the holiday season comes into full swing, there isn't much time to just sit and enjoy the fact that Christmas is coming just around the corner. I like having a reason to be happy that is the same as everyone else's and enjoying the time of year.

You've got to admit: there is something special about the Christmas season. And one of those special things signifies the start of the holiday season more than any Walmart Christmas tree: a Chick-fil-a chocolate chip peppermint milkshake. "A milkshake, of all things?" you might ask, and that is correct. But this is not just any milkshake. One sip of what I consider God's Christmas gift to the Earth and you are literally tasting the essence of Christmas -- Christmas in a cup if you will.The cool crunching of tiny peppermint pieces between your teeth, little chocolate chips shooting up your straw, all mixed with sweet vanilla ice cream and topped with whipped cream and a cherry. Nothing makes you more excited for Christmas movies, presents, and cookies.

So, if you're one of those early Christmas haters, I believe that this milkshake could change your mind. I have driven an hour from my grandma's to get one, not kidding. Distance is no obstacle to the joy of the Christmas season. One sip and you can picture Rudolph leading the way for Santa and Frosty the Snowman coming to life. The Christmas season is upon us, and it's up to us to choose to embrace it.