During the Christmas season we have a handful of traditions.  Our younger daughter and my husband arrange his collection of nutcrackers.  We bake sugar cookies that the kids frost.  Stockings are hung on the stairway railing, including one for our only pet, a gecko.  (Yes, he even receives a present on Christmas morning!)  Lists are written for Santa at Thanksgiving.

During the month of December, my husband and I have a couple traditions that are for just the two of us.  We always find a day to shop together for the kids and go to lunch.  We also always find time to watch It’s a Wonderful Life.  I’m not one to watch movies or tv shows multiple times; one viewing is enough.  However, It’s a Wonderful Life holds a special place in my heart.  Although I’ve seen the movie numerous times, every time I watch it I am brought to tears.

Watching the movie reminds me of how grateful I should be for all I have. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the season, it is easy to lose focus on why we are buying presents and getting together with friends.  It isn’t because there’s an obligation to give a gift or go to dinner, it’s because these are the people for whom we care.  While I make the shopping list and note which items we want to get for each of our children, I also try to remember what it is that makes each child special.

In the same way, I am grateful for the team with whom I work.  Engineering, editors, writers- they form the backbone of PKP. Without them this company wouldn’t be the success that it is.  Sure, the number of unique pageviews is critical, but it is the people behind the scenes that make this happen.  For them I am grateful.

As the year winds down and celebrations and shopping fill your calender, take some time and think about those for whom you are grateful.  Feel free to share those thoughts in the comments below.