What provokes  the "holiday spirit" in one person may provoke annoyance in the next. But whatever the season or impetus, and however we label it, you know the good feeling when it hits.

I have a habit of thinking all happiness is preceded by a clean house. In truth, most of my best "holiday spirit" times have occurred in the midst of utter chaos. Usually involved is semi- spontaneity, close friends, quiet surroundings (which is not to say we won't be loud), sometimes a shared focus or an outdoor excursion, and lots of good food. There's an air of "happiness no matter what," which flies in the face of whatever's going on in the wider world. Trusting my intuition.

It's happening to me a lot, lately. Friends showing up at odd hours, most bearing food. We've watched movies, cooked meals, gone on walks ~ all the holiday things. There have been craft projects. We've even spent hours in companionable silence, reading or working or listening to music. And they seem to know when to leave ~ just a bit too soon, which makes it perfect.

I've been looking for a dog. At each shelter, I found a creature I could care for. How to decide? I made a mental chart of pros and cons. I considered getting them all. Then, earlier this week, I remembered to ask. (I'm starting to think of my intuition as a sort of Cosmic Google.)  "Which dog is mine?" Within the hour I met the little black dog I've come to call Tesla. It was an instant knowing. Love. And he fit all my criteria. Imagine that.

Of course, we have to get to know each other. Over time, we will reveal our idiosyncrasies. Right now, there is joy.  I am filled with the holiday spirit.

Wishing you the same,
P.S. Here's a taste of what's in the December CATALYST: