Welcome to the month of December! For adults and children worldwide this is probably the most anticipated month of the year. In fact, preparations for this month seem to begin earlier and earlier every year. Just recently, I made a quick stop at my local grocery store to pick up a few items and as soon as I entered the store my ears were bombarded…

A kaleidoscope of sun-kissed golden hues of gold and orange paint the sky and nature; pumpkins, scarecrows and dried cornstalks decorate front yards and porches; cheers of team spirit and camaraderie herald through crisp fall air at football games; cool, windy breezes and the billowing of smoke from chimneys; warm cups of cocoa or tea being grasped while snuggling under a soft blanket; the sweet…