November always a special time a year for me. I love the smells and I love planning all the family time. I love it because nothing fills my cup like time spent with those I love and time spent in gratitude.  I can recall the very minute that I finally understood what the season was all about. With all the hustle and bustle of pre-holiday times, I was allowed to help serve at a “soup kitchen” before the holidays when I was in high school. Why before? Because serving others is a year-round thing and not just a holiday thing. Why was this my Ah-ha moment? Because it demonstrated a need to be involved and give during a time that was by all purposes normal. I know Christmas is basically hijacking November and we are all thinking of all that must get done but for me, the thought of serving is never behind. How do you make your community better? What do you do when no one is watching? Who do you invite to join you? My most favorite family traditions turned out to have nothing with my family and everything to do with my community.