When you think of December, what do you think of? Christmas, Hanukkah, Eid, Kwanzah, or even a more generic "holiday season". Kids getting a couple of weeks off of school. Traveling to see relatives, which may mean a long car trip or long lines at the airport. Shopping, lots of shopping.

Yes, those are all fine and good and, well, to be expected.

What do I think about in December? I think about the year past. You see, for me, December is a time for reflection.

For most of us, especially those of us with children, it is very easy to get so caught up in the day-to-day details that we lose track of time. How many times have you found yourself saying, "Wow, I can't believe this month is almost over." Or "I can't believe we're halfway done with the year!"

So, in the interest of "checking in" with my goals and life plan, I need to find time to take a look at everything that happened over the past year. What better time than December? Things typically slow down in the world while people celebrate, so it gives us the perfect opportunity to pause and ponder.

Another reason I look to December to reflect is January is only days away and that is not only the beginning of the new year, it is also a psychological clean slate and fresh start. While many people are making half-hearted New Year's Resolutions, I am making real goals based on the past year's accomplishments and what I plan on accomplishing in the coming months.

For those of you who journal, like me, this is also a good opportunity to go back and skim over what you have written. Even if you write to vent, it is educational to see how far you've come in the past year to help you realize that you are making progress in your life.

Taking time to stop and smell the roses in life can only happen if you actually take time to stop. What better time than December?