No, it’s not a misspelling…just an acknowledgement of what today is about.  Got your attention though, didn’t it?  The holiday season should be a “Merry” time for everyone so today…….

Monday Gets Merried!

It’s not about presents and demands of buying and fighting crowds that look like they will wrestle you to the ground for that special sweater or mittens.  It’s not about whom to invite to your holiday party and wondering if you will be invited to all the “A” list gatherings.  No thoughts should be of whether the kids will get everything on their list from Santa, or if they will be angry at the ole jolly man for not fulfilling their every wish.  No stressful thoughts experienced of needing to max out your credit cards to purchase gifts for all the loved ones on your list.  Just don’t even go there!!!

Rather, it should be a simple time of reflection and gathering with friends and family to rejoice in the gift of love and friendship that you all share.  It is about the sheer joy of seeing twinkling lights everywhere.  I never get tired of passing house after house with their windows filled with multiple starburst lights.  It really doesn’t matter about the expertise level of the decoration…..it’s just about the world of fantasy that seems to be created.  I am sure there is something hidden in my childhood that makes me revert to that special place each time my eyes catch sight of a wonderland display.

Oh yes, and all the smells that come from doors you pass at this time of year….cookies baking, pies cooling and lots of “roasting” going on.  I’m not sure if it’s the cooler weather or holiday spirit that creates the fever of baking in people, but it sure adds a wonderful flavor to the air.  I’m not really one who does regular displays of baked goods; but at Christmas, suddenly I’m searching my archives for special recipes to stir up.

Today, I would like to send special wishes for a very joyful and merry holiday season to everyone who is reading this post.  Please take time to reflect on all the wonderful gifts you have in your life.  Be sure to count your blessings……. every one should be able to create a long list.  Instead of buying an expensive present for someone who already has lots (and maybe even way more than they need), perhaps, take some of that money and give it to a family that is struggling right now.  Christmas time should really be about taking the opportunity to make a difference in this world and bring joy and smiles to those around you who really need a boost.  Don’t get caught up in the frenzy of mandatory shopping…..instead look forward to being grateful for what you have right now and sharing that feeling with others.

A simple Christmas card filled with words of appreciation and good wishes can mean more to some people than an expensive present from Rodeo Drive, Louis Vuitton’s jewelry collection or one of Michael Kors latest creations.  Be in the moment and spend your time appreciating your friends and family instead of spending your money shopping for something that they may never use.  I think you will be surprised to find how it is a win-win situation for both of you.  One special friend started sending me Christmas cards in October.  Silly, but so appreciated!!  Smiles are priceless and she has given me many now.  Another one recently sent me a long note telling me how much she appreciated and enjoyed the time we had spent together.  I haven’t seen her in about four or five years, but it made those special moments come back to life and feel like it was only yesterday that we were together.

So, I sure hope your Monday is Merry and all the days that follow.

Be sure to share your merriment with others

and focus on what is really important right now.

Hope your holiday season for 2012 is

the very best ever…..it’s up to you to make that happen!!

Happy Holidays.

Smiles,

Nancy