HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

The holidays feel different this year. I know, for the obvious reasons, they are different. Unemployment is at a 34 yr. high, people are losing their homes, bankruptcies are being filed left and right, and basically, the economy has brought this country to its knees.

But aside from all the doom and gloom, it really does feel different. A gray cloud with a silver lining, if you will. I see Christmases of long ago reemerging into present day. Christmases that were once truly based on family and tradition, not just in words, but in actions. From the time when a gift was worth more because it was carefully chosen or thoughtfully made. When gatherings of family and friends were just that, not orchestrated events into which they seem to have evolved. I feel simpler times. Times when a beautifully decorated home included handmade snowflakes created by the children who live there, unlike the torrents of flashing lights and animated characters filling the yards of neighbors competing for the most attention that have replaced them.

I invite you this year to let go of the holiday pressures. Let go of any guilt you may harbor for not being able to spend more. It's not about the most elaborate decorations, the most beautifully set table or the fanciest of food to be served there. It's not about the number of gifts or how much they cost. It's about welcoming people we love into our homes and creating memories, carrying on traditions to be practiced for generations to come. These are things we can do, not things we have to buy. These things can be done anywhere, even in the most dire of circumstances, but connecting with others is what really warms the heart.

So set yourself free! Cut snowflakes with your kids, string popcorn for your tree, bake cookies for your neighbors and your children's teachers. Even if you only have a package of hamburger in your freezer and some buns in your pantry, invite some friends over, shovel a path to your grill and create some good times! Getting back to the basics can be good for us all.

This week I'll touch on some simple things to do around the home to put you in the holiday spirit! Please feel free to share with me any ideas that you have and we can all put our heads together and help create a more joyous holiday!