“The days are long, but the years are short.” – Gretchen Rubin

It’s the first of November and sleigh bells ring…are you listening? I walked into the local bagel shop this morning and heard Winter Wonderland streaming through the speakers. I caught myself humming it all day long. The song itself makes me feel festive, but the idea that November marks the official commencement of the holiday season and the beginning of the end of the current year, well, that makes me feel a little…I dunno. Relieved? Accomplished? Anxious? Hopeful?

If you’re like me the last couple of months of the year are bittersweet. On the positive side, I can look forward to a little time off from work and school, a few days to sleep in, some shiny new stuff for the house, a chance to see friends and family. On the other hand, I’m running out of time to clean out the closet and bring those old clothes to Good Will. I’ll have to come to terms with the fact that I didn’t even start the book I was planning to write this year. I’ll notice that the extra pound or two or ten that I was sure I’d work off are still there and my bike is still gathering dust in the garage. Above all, the next two months will be a time of reflection. A time to remind myself to practice gratitude.

As the year is winding down and the new year is almost here, how do you feel? What’s the first word that comes to your mind? Feel free to share it in the comments area.