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It's sad how the Holiday season tends to bring out the worst in people. Studies show that stress levels seem to increase around the holidays. I can see why. The shopping, the parties, the forced family gatherings. It seems like life goes into hyper drive come December. With the fast pace of holiday fun comes added stress and frustration. This usually leads to people acting ugly (pushing and shoving in lines, speeding on the roads, double parking at the mall.) Traffic is congested. Stores are congested. My nose is congested.

This is why I tend to dislike the Holidays. Before you call me out as a "Scrooge," let me explain. I still believe Christmas is a time to slow down and relax. Be thankful for friends and family. Give a few gifts to people you love. Lift some spirits by lending a helping hand to those in need.

So how do I keep my head during the hustle and rush of the Holiday season? It took years of practice, but I finally have a solution. First, I avoid malls. I just don't go. Second, I always drop some $ in the red kettles. It's amazing how good it makes you feel!! .. Try it! It can change your mood in an instant. Third, I don't worry about what to "get" people for Christmas. I don't make a shopping list, and I don't stress about buying gifts. I do buy gifts, but I do it at my leisure. If it doesn't get done till the 24th .. then so be it. Not a big deal. If the gift is "not" what they wanted .. then they missed the point. To me, Christmas has always been about giving, not receiving. Every gift is special, because it's from the heart.

Merry Christmas!! I hope the Holidays find you in good spirits and good health!!