Don’t you love the holidays? The sights, smells and traditions of the holiday season are like no other time of the year. I love getting together with family and friends. Holiday parties always mean I get to sample a lot of new recipes and, of course, enjoy the ones from holidays past.

If you’re like me, you try to fit too many things into the short holiday season. I sometimes get grumpy and I always leave something undone. So, here are some holiday ideas:

Make sure you schedule some time for fun and laughter. Plan time with people who are lighthearted.

Holiday driving can be frustrating. Tie a bow or bell around your rearview mirror to remind you to stay in the holiday spirit.

Leave yourself plenty of time for travel. We forget that the holiday streets are crowded and even our weekly trip to the local grocery can take extra time.

Plan your festivities in detail, but if the details don’t go as planned, improvise and let it go. I used to make lots of cookies every year. My husband made candy and we gave this to all friends and family. Over the last few years, we haven’t had the time. Now, we buy cookies and candy. The younger ones in our families have taken over the “making” tradition.

Do something for someone less fortunate. There’s nothing that makes us feel better than helping others who truly need it. Find a deserving person or family and do something for them. If this makes you uncomfortable in person, you can have someone present it for you or donate through a church or charity.

Here's the latest article from the Great Lakes site at BellaOnline.com.

Christmas Tree Lighting Indianapolis Indiana
The Circle of Lights celebration in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a family affair. Held on the Monument Circle on the Friday evening after Thanksgiving, this event attracts more than 100,000 people. It's a great way to get into the holiday spirit.

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art46639.asp

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