I suppose my inner child must have known it is Christmas. I wanted to sleep in this morning, but I was awake a little before 8. (In honor of the holiday, I will neglect to mention the neighbor's part in this.) And just like a little kid, I hopped out of bed and went out to the living room to see if Santa brought me anything.

Now, I live alone. Obviously there were no surprises waiting for me under the tree. Still, the sight of the pile of presents there -- which I put there, to give to others -- filled me with excitement and the Christmas spirit.

I still need to finish decorating, and there are a few other things I want to get done this morning. I have plenty of time for it now.