The recent change of weather is a fun reminder that the holidays are coming – Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah and ultimately New Years. The chilly weather is also a reminder of the fact it is time to plan holiday traditions and/or make a few new ones.

For me, this whole season seems exacerbated by the package that will be arriving in eight weeks. So, with the nesting impulse in full-swing, I am ramping up for a fabulously fun holiday for Bobby to remember before little brother starts sharing the spotlight.

First on the list are turkeys, pilgrims and pumpkins. With Thanksgiving around the corner, it’s time to figure out a few festive things to do with Bobby. We might go trample through falling leaves, use handprints to make turkeys, celebrate friends at simple gatherings. After all, who doesn’t want an excuse to enjoy friends and the flavors of the season (oh, pumpkin pancakes with roasted pears).

Then, there’s the post Thanksgiving festivities – picking out the holiday tree, venturing to the big city to see the decorations, and enjoying some sort of winter concert. Last year, we listened to the Napa Choir perform at different parking garages in Napa. This year, I’m not sure what musical experience we’ll partake in – maybe Snoopy’s Tree Lighting & Show or a children’s choir.

To wrap things up, I’ll figure out a few toddler friendly projects and books to reinforce meaning behind this time of year. Luckily, I found a few books at my favorite local thrift store to help me out on this one – Clifford’s First Autumn, How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Ho Ho Ho Tucker. Thank you Bon Marche! Though libraries are a great source for other books as well.

In the weeks to come, I’ll be sharing some ideas for this holiday season including crafts and events. So, check back soon!