Do what you have time for

Decorating for the holidays can take up a huge amount of time, depending on the number of decorations you have. Plan a time to put up your decorations and a time to take them down. A friend of mine recently got out all her Halloween decorations. They've been taking up her dining room table for more than a week now, and she's super busy this week. Guess whether or not she's going to get her table back this week? If you have to decorate and you don't have much time, be judicious about the items you put out. Choose only the ones you really love (and consider giving away the rest).

 

Are you packing your ghosts and discarding your jack-o’-lantern? Then you know that Thanksgiving is right around the corner, followed by the “busy season” as people prepare for Christmas, Hanukkah, and other solstice-time celebrations. The holidays are a time of joy and celebration, but all too often, stress and sadness come with the season. Family members and friends who have passed away are remembered, and the hubbub of parties, events, and vacation days can strain anyone’s schedule. Greeting cards, family gatherings, decorating, and gift giving all take of work. But a pinch of planning and a dash of restraint can lift your eyes and your heart to see the beauty of the season.