December is always a busy month with the holidays and trying to wrap up the year. Some of us have snow to enjoy and not enjoy so much when we’re cleaning it off our cars or shoveling our driveways and sidewalks. I’ve made it my mission this month to build a snowman in my front yard after I finish this issue. The air is crisp and clean with an occasional waft of chimney smoke to remind of us of sitting by the fireplace warm and cozy with a cup of warm apple cider or hot cocoa.

We’re looking forward to spending times with family and friends, eating delicious food, and sharing funny stories.

It’s sweater weather! Who doesn’t love a cozy sweater and a nice pair of warm socks?

We’ll be celebrating Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Eve.

During the excitement of the holidays, it’s easy to forget some of us may be lonely, sad, or in need. Please take a moment to remember our most vulnerable members of society who may be experiencing food scarcity, poverty, or homelessness. Consider donating to community food banks, clothing drives, and halfway houses. Warm clothing, socks, scarfs, blankets, backpacks, gently used toys, books, puzzles, games, or kitchen items (can openers, pans, utensils, plates, bowls, or cups) mean a lot to someone in need. Be generous this season. People are hurting and it’s only going to get colder.

This has been a difficult year for too many of our most vulnerable fellow humans. Let’s try to make 2026 a lot better.

Please enjoy “December 2025 in Pictures” from This Awful Awesome Life.