A Holiday Survival Guide

Tra-La-La-La-La and let the holiday madness begin!
But as I see it?
Things are what you make of them
If you believe it's madness then so it will be!
But there just might be another way to fill your days with Glee...
"To thy own self be true!"

First and Foremost Reminder... It is the season of GIVING - So, don't forget to give to yourself too.
In the midst of your shopping? Don't be afraid to find something special for YOU!
It is possible to find PEACE in the midst of the madness
As yourself, what is the meaning of this season for me?
Giving? Fun? Family? Religious Holidays? New Beginnings? Maybe Nothing?
Give yourself a moment to reflect on that... Perspective can bring calm
And don't feel obligated to go to every soiree, buy every present, bake every cookie, send every card, etc! Taking on too much IS exhausting. Focus on doing the things that bring you JOY
In the famous words of Lucy,
"Charlie Brown, You Need Involvement!"

When we have the blues or life feels bleak
( and yes, this happens to a lot of people during the holiday rush)
Sometimes the best thing to do is to help Others!
This is a great time of year to volunteer for kids or donate to places like
Toys for Tots, Make a Wish, Angel Tree, My Two Front Teeth ( more info here )
or through Rock a Patients World through Musicians On Call
I know a lot of people lament that this season has become a Hallmark holiday …
Well, if that is what's it all about for some people let that be ok. If you choose to worry about that? It just gives you more stress!
Instead? If this season means a lot to you in terms of religion and spirituality?
Celebrate, Embrace it and go be a part of Your community!
The Christmas Songs are Killing Me! (An over 21 game to cure you)

Even though I do love Christmas Music, I get it, sometimes it can be overwhelming to hear the same songs everywhere constantly at this time of year.
Try this little game to help lift your spirits and completely dull your mind.
You will Need:

At least 3 friends, a recording of 'Jingle Bell Rock'
Beer/wine/cider (things can get a little too crazy with the egg nog or glog)
Sit in a circle with your drinks. Play the recording of 'Jingle Bell Rock'
Each time the song sings 'Jingle Bell Rock" Drink :)
The more advanced version is to drink each time they sing 'Jingle Bell'

Trust me after 2 passes you won't mind the music - ha! ha! ha!
Ok, Just kidding, that was some silly holiday advice I learned in college...
Hope it made you laugh...
But seriously ?
Is there anyone out there who actually knows how many times they say Jingle Bell & Jingle Bell Rock in the song? Drop a line back and get a free CD!!
Dear Mr. Scrooge

And then there's the Scrooges and the Grinchs and that's totally cool you're doing your own thing. Perhaps consider taking a moment this season and watch a little kid (like Sally-Who) shine on about their stocking, Santa, candy cane or cookies. That Might make you smile ?
And lest we not forget it was the Grinch who taught
Who-Ville about the real meaning of Christmas...
"I'm glad he took our presents. You can't hurt Christmas, Mr. Mayor, because it isn't about the... the gifts or the contest or the fancy lights. That's what Cindy's been trying to tell everyone... and me. I don't need anything more for Christmas than this right here: my family..."
(and when in doubt there's always the JB Rock game to help you get through)

May you find Love, Light and Peace this Holiday Season
I'm gonna go drink some Soy Nog
Blessings
Meredith