'How did it get so late so soon? Its night before its afternoon. December is here before its June. My goodness how the time has flewn. How did it get so late so soon?"
--Theodor Geisel

How does it (and does it not) feel like Christmastime?

Well...it feels (as in feel-feels) like April, to be honest. Damp, drizzly, and warm. A hopeful, green-growing kind of warm. So the rain's not even a cozy "stay inside because it's so cold and wet" sort of rain. It's a look for the daffodils kind of rain.
Which is not really a Christmas-y feeling is it?
But at school there's a rush of activity, which always happens with exams and the end of the semester. A play, lessons and carols, reading "A Christmas Carol" in class...there's so much exciting stuff happening!
And there are decorations everywhere--Charleston is decked out with garland, lights, ribbon, and sales. We watched the Christmas parade yesterday afternoon--I've never seen so many basset hounds in my entire life. Which is a strange comment to make after seeing a Christmas parade. And passing by Marion Square last night was a delight. Each tree is wrapped in twinkling lights and it looks truly magical.
There is a sacred feeling about this time of year, no matter what the weather is like. It's a rush and a blur, but also a calm warm time to be with friends and family. Reminding each other of what we are waiting for--what this time is about. Why we go inside and light candles and gather close.
It glows.