by Mary Snyder

Created on: November 09, 2008   Last Updated: December 04, 2008

The holidays are fast approaching and once again we scramble to get ideas for gifts that will be long remembered after the holidays have passed. Let's remember that the holidays are treasures for our minds to drift back to and cherish. Time that is well spent with family and friends. Are you there? Can you see the faces? What's the one thing that comes to your mind over the holidays? Now that you have that warm feeling and that little smile on your face, let's get started making this holiday season a great memory for you and your family!

The kick off is Thanksgiving and I usually cook, so around the first part of November I call and check with each child and see who has to work and when. Then I set the date and time for dinner, reminding each one to bring a list of items that they may like for Christmas. This gives us all an idea and really eliminates unwanted gifts. That's not to say that if you see an item that you know so and so would like that you shouldn't buy it. It justs eliminates clutter. After all you have enough to do already! Because it is Thanksgiving we all say one thing that we are grateful for before we sit down to our dinner.

Black friday is not a day to venture out if you do not enjoy the sale madness! There is no law that says you must shop on that day! Rather, wait and shop early morning hours or very early afternoon hours if possible. With list in hand pick up a few items each trip. Now you are on your way to reclaiming the spirit of the Holiday! You can turn on your Christmas music and wrap your gifts as you remember family and friends and just enjoy the season.

The best advice to taking back the season and the joy you should derive from it is to avoid the scrooges whenever possible.It is not about mumble grumble, but rather a time to reflect on the year past and the memories made with those near and dear to you. It is by all accounts a frame of mind and of heart. I will share with you one thing that my family really enjoys and they ask me every year if I am going to do it again. That is this. We have three daughters between us and each year I get a medium to large basket and start shopping for items, useful items, for the kitchen or bath, things that as a young mother you do not get for yourself, I place each item in the basket and decorate it then shrink wrap it. Everything is purchased in their favorite colors and they just love them. It doesn't take much money and makes a useful and thoughtful gift.

Holidays should not be stressful, but when you do become stressed, take five and relax! Then get back out there and enjoy the season! Ho Ho Ho!

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