Merry and Bright                                                                         

This time of year tends to sneak up on us.  By the end of the summer, I think about starting my holiday shopping; but October always turns into December very quickly.  I often hear my friends complain how holiday cards, shopping, baking, wrapping, and holiday events add more piles of "to-dos" to their to-do lists, and all within a very short period of time.  It is no wonder why so many people feel stressed this time of year!  It seems unrealistic to take the time to relax with good friends and family when so much has to get done.  

In the spirit of maintaining good health, it is important to reassess our meaning of the holidays.  We can do this by prioritizing what's most important to our holiday traditions.  Make an effort to cut down (or even eliminate) tasks that are too time consuming or less important.  Make time to connect and catch up with good friends, and carve out time to exercise and relax in between the hustle and bustle.

As with so many things in life, we are so busy "doing" that we often lose sight of the moment and enjoying what surrounds us.  This holiday, take time to reflect on the year that has passed while anticipating  the new one...relax and enjoy.

Wishing you a happy, healthy holiday season.