Most Wonderful Time of Year!

 I am finally back. Finals are over for the while and I can breathe (and post) again...and I have a lot to post.

Starting at Halloween I adore this time of year! Now that we are past Thanksgiving and into December it is finally time for CHRISTMAS!!! I love everything about it. The smells, the tastes, the lights, the cold, the food, the music, the decorations, the scarves, the boots, the music, the family....I could really keep going.

Last year this time I was packing and headed to Scotland. I spent Christmas and New Years there and I don't know if much could top it. If I could afford it I would go back tomorrow. If I'm not mistaken they had record breaking cold and snow (until this year). Now, keep in mind I get cold in 80 degree weather and went entirely unprepared...
I've never enjoyed frozen fingers and toes more.


Fair warning: Lots of pictures coming.

If anyone can tell me where I can get a hot chocolate like this state side...I foresee a road trip to find it.

 This was by far the BEST burger I have ever had. I about froze to death while eating it but the perfectly cooked Aberdeen beef, melted cheese, caramelized onions, with a semi-sweet jelly to boot was heaven for the taste buds.

 My favorite ornament in his house or mine.

The people I was staying with live right by the beach. For some reason I have always loved the beach in the winter. Its romantic.

 My favorite snack over there. Cheese, crackers and cucumber-just like the hot chocolate and burger, it just doesn't taste the same here.

 New Years Eve. So much fun...and oh yeah, he wore the kilt.

 The Hogmanay Street Party. It was amazing. Some 80,000 people congregate on Princes Street to watch fireworks, listen to music, drink and ring in the new year.

Photos are finally over. Oh...dear Scotland, take me back. There are still so many things I want to do over there.  Where is the coolest place you've spent Christmas or New Years?