Simplify. Give Thanks. Be Merry.

Somewhere out there on the autumn road, we drove into Thanksgiving and stumbled upon the holiday season. We enjoyed the warm company and festive spirit of family while we filled up on delicious turkey, stuffing, great conversation and football. During dinner, in between the wine and the sweet potatoes, I realized a few things. Now, with December about to begin, I thought it was the perfect time to share and set the mood.

1.) Keep it simple. Christmas can be complex...if you allow it. There's always so much to plan; parties to attend (or throw); gifts to buy and wrap; and dinner experiences to be created. Figure out what works to keep you organized but more importantly remember what's important. What is your favorite part of Christmas? What is your family tradition? Stick to it. Simplify. Don't let anyone change that.

2.) Be thankful. I asked myself what it was that I was thankful for this year. Of course I'm appreciative of all that I have when there are so many less fortunate but my answer had nothing to do with material things. Among all of the crazy busy days, the family ups and downs, the daily stress- I'm most thankful for the loving people that surround me each and every day. I am important to so many as they are to me. At the risk of sounding cliche or like a television commerical, that really is priceless.

Now, in regards to those in the world that are not as lucky, I think we all should choose one thing we can do for a person in need. Food, clothing, a Christmas present from a Secret Santa, the Salvation Army's efforts, a soup kitchen, a neighbor who is alone. One small gesture could be tremendous to someone else.

3.) Be merry, jolly, silly....basically laugh as much as possible and fill your season with magic and a light-hearted spirit. This is not always easy but it is a challenge you should commit to. I know I will be working on it all of the time.

These are the things I will keep as guidelines to December 2010 as I decorate the tree, shop, wrap, socialize and plan Christmas dinner at our home. I hope you find any one of these thoughts helpful and share with those that you are thankful for in your life.