The holidays are fast approaching and I just wanted to check in to see how everyone is doing. I have turned off the news and am starting to get ideas for gifts. My goal is to keep up with the handcrafting and buying from places like Etsy, to get away from the Amazon site. Those little entrepreneurial souls out there need our help. There are beautiful jewelry and wood items that catch my eye. It fits my concept of mindful buying and giving with meaning. I know big retailers must make money as well to support the workers, but showing a little love for the small companies will make a difference to the owners and their families. Also, the craft shows are fun to explore for unique gifts.

As for the big family events, keep it simple. No devices or politics at the table. Invite one person who doesn’t have any family near them. Make cooking easy. Since it is only the two of us, it will be a small turkey and homemade sides for Thanksgiving. Our kiddo will be home at Christmas, so I am thinking ham, potatoes au gratin and greens for the Christmas feast. Decorating the tree is a tradition for all of us in the two weeks before Christmas, with our “fake tree” and eclectic ornaments. We will also be building the new addition to the Lego Village! (Santa’s post office and postal truck this year. Shout out to Lego!) Now this is my kind of holiday!

So try something new. Reduce the stress. Keep it simple. Give to the various Colorado Gives campaigns, donate new toys for those in need, make cookies or bread for the place you frequent the most (Louisville Rec Center for me), give handcrafted gifts, and donate your time to anyone who needs a hug. Love to you all at this time of year!