Take a deep breath; it’s that time of year again. The Christmas season is celebrated by many around the world. There are countless reasons to be joyous about the Christmas season. There is the comfort of steamy hot chocolate with melting marshmallows and sitting by the fireplace when the chilly rain pours outside the window. Also, there is the excitement of going skiing, snowboarding or traveling long distances to meet with relatives for a Christmas party.

    Every winter, I love watching the holiday lights on houses through the car window. It’s a striking sight to see colorful, bright lights lining rooftops all around town. It’s also pleasing to see the giant, elaborate Christmas tree and cute candy-cane decorations downtown.

    The diligent effort that the community puts into decorations is amazing and the results are pleasant to watch. One house I always look out for is the giant display across the street from the Chico Butte County Library.

Decorating the Christmas tree has been a household tradition for many generations. My family takes the easy route and simply buys a Christmas tree. 
    My siblings and I look forward to decorating the tree with all kinds of ornaments, including our snowman “star” on the very top.

Of course, “Santa Claus” comes to town every Christmas Eve; growing up my siblings and I had the joy of our parents drowning us with presents every year. I love the atmosphere on Christmas and the feeling that happiness is everywhere. 
    Whether we’re at a relative’s house or our own, the spirit of giving isn’t as plentiful during any other time of the year.  Because of my musical family, we usually have a Christmas CD playing in our car a few times every holiday season. The songs are cheerful to listen to such as “Little Saint Nick” by the Beach Boys.

    Chico is a perfect place to spend your holiday season, as it has many events that take place during the holiday season. Every year my family enjoys going to the Downtown Christmas Preview. Everyone should take the time and appreciate everything we do during the brilliant holiday season. ‘Tis the season to be jolly!’