“Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings,” Zuzu Bailey, It’s a Wonderful Life.

There’s something special about this time of year. It is a time of nostalgia, for sure, but also a time of hope. This is my favorite time of year to snuggle up on the couch and watch a movie with my son until he falls asleep. Then, I struggle to carry his almost six-year-old sleeping self to bed and tuck him in before serving as Santa’s good little elf and pulling the wrapping paper, ribbons, and gifts from my secret hiding space and get to work. Over the course of a few nights, I’ll listen to my cherished Nsync Christmas album and I’ll get all of not just Santa’s wrapping done but also the wrapping of all the gifts for our family and friends.

At this point in my life, I’ve been through more than a few Christmases, but this will be my first with my son in school with older kids. I know the magic and mystery of Santa only lasts for so long and I want to hold on to that as long as I can, but I want to make sure I am also instilling in my child the importance of love, family, friendship, and generosity. And not just at Christmastime, but all year long, because that is what is really important.

So, while you are drinking hot cocoa and eating Christmas cookies, waiting in line to meet Santa, or whatever holiday tradition you celebrate, make sure to surround yourself with love, kindness, generosity, and hope. At the end of the day, isn’t that what it’s all about?