Happy (almost) winter break, Warriors!

I don’t know about you, but the holiday season is without a doubt my favorite time of year. I look forward to it for months and begin my preparations as soon as the calendar turns over to November. (Yes, I listen to Christmas music on November 1!) I love spending the season watching movies, wrapping presents and celebrating with my friends and family.

And the snow this week certainly helps spread holiday cheer!

But with all the hustle and bustle of the season, sometimes we can forget what it’s all about. I am guilty of getting too caught up in the food and the movies and the presents and missing the true meaning of my favorite time of year.

One of my favorite holiday stories is How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Leave it to Dr. Seuss to rhyme his way right into the heart of the season.

Near the end of the book, the Grinch thinks he’s won – stolen all of the Whos’ presents, decorations and food. But the Whos are celebrating Christmas with or without presents and the Grinch comes to an important revelation.

“He puzzled and puzzled ‘til his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. Maybe Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.”

The Grinch realized that the holiday spirit doesn’t come from cookies and movies and presents. It comes from spending the season with those you love and being thankful for the blessings in your life.

This winter break I am challenging us all, myself included, to make the holidays mean a little bit more. Spend extra time with our loved ones, be kind to one another, spread holiday cheer as you wait in long lines. The holiday season is about more than the presents and decorations, and my hope is that we all take some time to remember that over the next few weeks.

I wish you all a safe, happy and meaningful holiday season. I can’t wait to work smart, create experience and embrace growth with you all in 2020!