It's that time of year

The holiday season is my favorite time of the year! Why may you ask? As N-Sync once sang, " It's the best time of the year for the family; It's a wonderful feeling; Feel the love in the room from the floor to the ceiling; It's that time of year; Christmastime is here!"

Here are a couple of ways that I have been celebrating this special time the past few days:

My colleagues and I decided to have an ugly Christmas sweater work day last Friday. To be honest, I wish we could rock this look all the time because it is quite comfortable.

Friday was especially fun because we got to leave the office early and head to our annual holiday party at Broadway Cellars. Good food, good times, and good company!

But don't worry, the fun didn't stop there. Following the holiday work party, some of us went to our friend Ben's party. I truly got the most out of my ugly sweater. You wouldn't believe how many compliments I received.

Although Friday was a great time, the best part of my weekend was these two's big announcement...RYAN PROPOSED and Kara, of course, said YES! I made them take of picture of making it FBO (aka Facebook official for my social media disengaged friends).

Therefore, Brooke and I had to treat Kara to a mani/pedi. I ended up just going for the company because the salon did not have my preferred holiday color choice. 

But it was worth waiting because the salon by my work had the no-chip gold that I wanted. So instead of taking my lunch break to eat a salad, I decided to get my nails done with my colleague and friend, Sara. What do y'all think of this holiday color combo? Have you noticed that I am all about getting mani's lately? Remember this post?

Contrary to (some) popular belief, I promise that I have a life outside of getting my nails done. In fact, I am still in love with this big city and appreciating it like a tourist. So, I was happy that my dear friend from high school, Stacy, was able to visit me right before I left for Christmas break! (Yes, I am in academia and I still see the year in terms of semesters). 5 bucks if you can spot Stacy and me in this picture of the Bean.

Stacy and I had a great time but us city girls were excited to head back to rural Homaha.  I was really lucky that I made it back today because the weather has been crazy in the midwest. This is a picture of my parents' street. As expected, it looks like we are going to have a white christmas in Nebraska.

I've only been back for a few short hours, but I am already thankful for the time I get to spend with my family and friends. Y'all obviously know that I will always have a special place in my heart for this place... especially at this time. 

I guess you can say that it brings out the inner  kid in me- being fully present and open to love, laugher,  and others.

Tis the season, my friends. Just want to wish you a H-A-P-P-Y   H-O-L-I-D-A-Y season and encourage you to make this time count. Sing your favorite Christmas song a little bit louder, sit down and enjoy a drink/non-alcoholic beverage with a family member or good friend, and make sure to treat yo self!