News Taffy

The holidays often bring stress along with the joy. We try to cram in as many things as possible and find it hard to say no to any request, volunteer job or party. In the hustle and bustle of getting ready for Christmas, we forget the real meaning of Thanksgiving which is to reflect on our many blessings and spend time with those we love.

Tomorrow, take time to stop and truly enjoy the day. Forget about Black Friday and the shopping you plan to start at 8 p.m. Forget about the cards you need to address, the tree and lights you want to put up. For once, be in the moment.

Tomorrow, put aside your little square friend in favor of those actually around you. Make a vow to turn off your cell phone, ignore Facebook and your iPad. Leave the television off. At least for a few hours, require your children to do the same. If you are far away from loved ones, make a phone call or Skype with them but otherwise, have an old fashioned, gadget free day. There is a certain freedom in getting away from Tweets, phone calls and texts and hiding away from the world for awhile.

Relax with your children, friends and family. Put aside differences, especially politics, and find some common ground. Invite someone who is alone for the day. Laugh often. Assign chores so no one is stuck with all the work. Play games, go for a walk. Put up a big sheet of paper and have everyone write down things they are thankful for; read them aloud after dinner. Bring out the photo albums and remember those who aren’t around anymore or tell those great family stories. The kids need to know that Grandpa served in Viet Nam or hear about Aunt Jayne’s adventures in the Peace Corp.

Know your limits. Don’t have that second piece of pie or that third drink. The holidays don’t have to end with indigestion or worse. If alcohol is a part of your celebration, don’t drink and drive; have a designated driver. If you are visiting more than one family over Thanksgiving, don’t eat a huge meal each time. Your stomach and waistline will thank you.

Take a few moments just for yourself. Meditate, do a few stretches, go for an early morning jog. Center yourself in peacefulness before the hectic celebration begins and you may find the whole day less stressful. Just before bed, take time to reflect on the things that made the day special but banish the negative thoughts. May you have a truly blessed and happy Thanksgiving.

Until next week,
Lisa