You haven't heard from me in awhile. I have great excuses. Really, I do. Our neighbors had a party and I had to make some cookies to bring. No time that day to contact you. I drove friends to the airport so they could go on a winter vacation. No time that day. You know the traffic! And Christmas cards- took all day (one day) to create them, write the letter to everyone who was waiting with baited breath to hear the synopsis of our year (another day). Then another day to

"Stuff your eyes with wonder... Live as if you'll drop dead in ten seconds. See the world. It's more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories." Ray Bradbury Especially this time of year (why not all year, I ask?) we feel the wonder of each day, each holiday event, each family gathering, all holiday lights twinkle in the darkest, music everywhere. What is it you want your family to know about your traditions? Your grandparents' traditions? What would you like th

"One must possess a little Faith, a little moxie and a great deal of enthusiasm." This is so true if you wish to keep your life in control during the rush, over-scheduling, multi-tasking that the holiday season can become. How do we sustain our idea of a holiday with calm, joyful days? One way, I think, is to renew what we want from this time. It is the season of gifting - and receiving. I think it is a gift to ourselves to remember it is best to bring joy to others and ha

As the season approaches - rapidly - remember this is your circus. You can control a great deal of the stress and strain. You can enjoy the time with family and friends. Leave your backpack of old hurts and regrets at the door. Take a deep breathe. Savor the sights and smells. Recognize all you have done to make this a "wonderful time of the year' and reach out to some one alone so they, too, can feel the magic of the season. I also take time to pause and realize, this is

Congratulations to the ORIGINAL "Stuff Workshop" participants. They have been sticking to the contract they signed at the end of their workshop, agreeing to check in each month for 6 months and honestly sharing the big- and little achievements accomplished. The group has supported each other with the job of sorting, deciding, discarding the treasures in their homes. This includes closets, drawers, basements, garages, desks, boxes, piles - you get the picture. On January 7 t