Happy Holidays... Let's Keep it that Way

The Holidays are here. Are you ready to have "Blue Christmas" or a "Merry Christmas"?

I hope you chose Merry... However, even if you chose Blue the following suggestions are sure to help even the "blues" have a Merry Christmas this year.

Misery loves company... but Merry loves it even more

Smile at someone today. Smile at everyone today. Do you have shopping to do after work today? Smile at the cashier; wish him or her Happy Holidays before they wish it to you. Wish good tidings to all whom you meet this day and encourage your children to join in, with you, in offering jovial salutations. A smile and a Merry Christmas from a child can booster even a Scrooge's demeanor.

Is the weather outside truly frightful? Then make someone's day delightful

Go ahead and let that car into your lane. Let the couple cross the street even though the light just turned. Pay for the person's Starbuck's behind you. Start a chain of being nice. The act of being good can be contagious. I know when I paid for the person's coffee behind me (just because it was Thursday) that the next day I was informed a chain of seventeen cars kept it up. Talk about passing it on. Goosebumps all over my arms reaffirmed that being nice is the best way to be.

Deck the halls.... Deck the house... deck the yard

Have the entire family help with holiday decorating this year. There is no need to tackle everything yourself. The more the merrier... remember from tip number one. Who cares if the garland may be a bit left of center as your thirteen year old was in charge of garland stringing--- I bet if you look closely, that garland is sparkling with joy.

Don't forget "and a partridge in a pear tree"

When decorating the outside this year... hang garland that will attract winter birds. Not only will you be spreading the joy whilst making your home look pretty, but you will be helping make the birds have a happier time as well. Listen closely and you will hear more birds sing, the more people that partake in this endeavor. Spread the word.

Home is where the heart is... so build one

Gingerbread homes are an excellent way to increase laughter and decrease stress. Let go of the need for straight roofs, or perfect window shutters. The number of gumdrops does not need to be same on each side of the fence. Enjoy the time with the kids... watch, I bet you go into work the next day, still smiling as you reminisce about the fun which was had by all.

Happy Holidays to everyone this year. May your season be full of Merry and wonder!