This time of year

The weather in New Orleans has just begun to turn cold, and I couldn't be happier about losing myself in the little joys of the season.

This time of year is for curling up with Pearl, watching old movies and sipping a mug of tea or a glass of red wine. My nails are painted a dark color, something something raisin, and I'm happily decked out in sleeves. Once again, it's the season for running in capris and tights (my favorite). I'm loving the feeling of crisp air on my face when I go outside. Streetcars are decorated with garlands and bows, and my favorite houses Uptown are beautifully framed by sparkling strands of lights. My own little balcony is lit up, too, and my cacti and citrus tree are basking in the glow.

Mostly, though, I'm thinking of Arizona and how excited I am to be traveling home for a week around Christmas. I haven't seen my youngest brother in two years, so that will be a highlight of my trip. I'm looking forward to Christmas Eve with my family, which will include the overflow mass in the gym at church (it's always the better mass), a cheese crisp at Casa Molina, a movie in our living room, and almost certainly an hour or so of wrapping presents while I'm full of Mexican food and so tired that I can barely keep my eyes open. Then there will be Christmas morning with cinnamon rolls and something from Starbucks for everyone. Smiles, surprises, and shy Misty making her way through piles of gifts and wrapping paper.

Right now, nothing sounds better than that. Home.