Bring on the Christmas Cheer

It's Black Friday, the official opening day of the Christmas season.  The weather is nippy and bright.  The shops have been in full-on sales mode for weeks now...the shoppers, not so much.  My list has been getting shorter and more realistic, which is a good thing.  Bring on the essence of the season.  Christmas music, spice scented candles, winter decorations that likely won't come down until Easter, keeping the holiday festivals and stores stocked with cards and calendars...there's plenty to do.