1. Families come together. This is a time for family members near and far to gather to reconnect.
2. Good food. From big turkey dinners with all the trimmings to sugar cookies and candy canes this is the best time of year to put on a few pounds.
3. Christmas lights and decorations. Portland has numerous holiday light displays like Zoo Lights, Peacock Lane, PIR, and just around the neighborhood that ensures a good night with friends and family.
4. Cheesy Christmas movies. The Hallmark channel play Christmas movies 24/7 in the days leading up to Christmas. Nothing sounds better then curling up on the sofa watching hours of cheesy Christmas movies.
5. Holiday basketball tournaments. Weather you are playing or watching the basketball season is finally in full swing!
6. The possibility of snow. Grab your hot coco and keep an eye out the window for the first snow flakes of the season, maybe this will be the year for a white Christmas.
7. Christmas music. Everywhere you go Christmas music fills the air.
8. Shopping. If you can brave the mall or packed stores lots of great sales are happening. Nothing beats the feeling of finding the perfect gift for that special someone.
9. Church Christmas Programs. Who doesn't love the sound children singing and little ones dressed up as shepherds and angels?
10. Celebrating the birth of our king Jesus. Despite all the hustle and bustle this time it is important to remember the real reason for this holiday which is that our savior has been born.