For you

 

I've been remiss. And busy. And tired. And...

I'll try to do better.

But no promises.

 

 



* * * * *

Day seven - December gifts

***

Fresh Air

Caberfae Peaks Ski Resort

There are days when I get sidetracked and stuck in busyness and I realize hours have passed and I'm still locked into a book, the computer, or marathoning Netflix.  At the point I come to this realization, my body aches and my brain is whipped tired.  Time to get up, move and breathe.

If you ski, ice skate, snowshoe, snowmobile, hike mountains, bravo - then you likely stay active and get outside throughout the winter months.  I'm a walker and cleared walkways are perfect for me and the pup to move and breathe.

And if we don't walk, we get off our duffs and go outside for a breather several times a day. Mental health professionals insist on a few things:  move, breathe outside air, sleep 8 hours.  So...get up and go outside and brrreeeaathe! 

***

Day six - December Gifts

Le Checklist

I wish I were a checklist person enabling me to not forget one little thing.

I'm a sticky note person.  Came from years "in the office" to make quick note taking a part of helping one's memory. But I love them and even if your activities at holiday time are not represented here, I bet you could find one on Pinterest or Etsy to suit your plans.

I fell for all the cutesy, artsy ones.  And I leave you with, "happy checking off your list and having a fun season" rendition - Enjoy...

***

Day Five - December Gifts

Comfort

There are so many things at this time of year that we let "get to us" - lots of demands on our time, our patience, our wallets.  So I'm thinking that we need to make a conscious effort to take a moment to comfort ourselves... that helps us slow down and enjoy the season.

I am an admitted coffee devotee.  If you're a tea drinker, indulge.  But I was looking for a fun way to enjoy my drink of choice - preferably hot drink this time of year and voila, I'll share this link:

 

https://www.bustle.com/articles/111511-11-fall-coffee-drink-recipes-that-will-keep-you-feeling-cozy-and-caffeinated-all-season-long

I'm not a hot chocolate drinker, and I'm sure their recipes are all over the internet, but they truly do make an inviting image!!!

***

Day Four - December gifts

Snowflakes!

I'm a Michigander and love winter. Loooooooove winter.  Watching the snowfall is a hobby of many of us - fire brewing on the inside with mug of hot drink while the snow flakes softly drift onto the ground outside...there is no therapeutic treatment better! We engage in all things snow...lovvvvve it!

I confess.  Cutting paper snowflakes has never been my forte.  Even worse if the pattern calls for "connected" snowflakes.  But to celebrate such beauties in December and in light of the fact that today is National Cookie Day, maybe a snowflake cookie recipe is in order?  If you engage, I wish you fun and yummieness!

http://www.hintofvanillablog.com/home/2015/11/snowflake-sugar-cookies.html

Day Three - December Gifts

 Make a date!


In December, treat yourself.  Make a date with someone special.  Not a spouse or close friend you see regularly.  With someone you haven't seen in awhile and you've been thinking about them.  It may take a little effort.

Here's an example.  A couple weeks ago I was thinking about a former client, who turned into my Realtor and then my friend.  I texted her to have lunch with me in December.  She was thrilled and I was glad she accepted.  We caught up for 2 1/2 hours today and it was wonderful not only to chat but share so much that the date has made a great memory.

Here's something else I do in December.  My mother and I would take an entire day to play in downtown Birmingham, Michigan.  Start with coffee.  Shop a little.  Into another cafe for a cup of soup.  Shop some more.  Finally a late lunch at one of their famous restaurants.  With the trunk of the car loaded, we chatted and giggled and ate our way through the day.

I plan to do that next week with her.  She's no longer living, but I'm taking her out for the day as I did when she was alive and vibrant and my best friend.  I will enjoy the day with her.

If that doesn't suit you, get out of that house and take yourself on a date.  Not for running errands. Be with your best friend enjoy your time with you.  Trust me - it's wonnnnderful!

See you next week, Toots.

 

We'll be leaving at 10 a.m, Mom.  I love you.