Merry Christmas and happy holidays, friends! If you’re anything like me, you’re ready to hit the Christmas cookies HARD, and I’m planning on doing just that for the next few days, surrounded by my sweet family and friends.

The holidays are always full of mixed emotions for me, I’m geeking out hard that I get to celebrate with loved ones and sleep until 10 every day, but it’s also a time of reflection – both at holidays past and the year as it’s almost over. While it’s mostly a happy, love-filled time, it’s also a little bittersweet, and makes you think about those you’ve lost who aren’t home for the holidays. My sweet friend Carly gave some wise words about loss during the holiday season, and it’s a kind reminder that sometimes the smallest kind words and gestures make all the difference. Not everyone is having the happiest of holidays, so don’t forget to reach out to those you love who might be having a hard time, and know the right thing to say to those needing a little extra kindness this time of year.

I feeling incredibly fortunate that I get to go back to my beautiful family and home in Madison {one of my favorite places in the world} to celebrate being together. I’m also looking forward to catching up with friends who I only see a few times a year when they come home for the holidays too. There’s so much to be thankful for, and I’m excited to get all those warm fuzzy feelings as I spend time with my incredible family and friends – I hope you feel the same way too!

Happy holidays to you and yours, and don’t forget to spread a little more love and kindness into the world too! We could all use a little extra love right about now, and there’s no better time than the holidays to do something good 🙂

Photo via the always fabulous Lauren Kelp <3