Tis' The Season. . .

As I am in the midst of all the fun, food, shopping, lights, celebrations, gift giving and receiving that goes along with Holiday seasons, I am hoping that this season finds you and your family doing well. During these challenging economic times, I've can't help but remind myself about what's really important. While I know there are families who have fortunately not been injured by the economy, there are some who I know have been hit much worse that my family has. While I can't deny the excitement I get in giving and receiving gifts, this year in particular has made me really think about what I have in my life. And as silly as it sounds, to wake up everyday to the annoying snoring of my husband and the Hannah Montana singing of my daughter, I truly know that those are the best holiday gifts in the world.

I always think back to something my maternal grandmother said and I think at times my mother may have quoted her as well. "That what doesn't kill you makes you stronger" and "This too shall pass". While not everything has a storybook ending, lessons can always be learned from hard times and hopefully we come out better and stronger people.

And while these economic times are scary - I have my health, my husband, my daughter and an amazing array of other family members and friends and we all have each other.

There is no time of year that is more special than the holiday season - whether you celebrate Chanukah, Christmas, Kwanzaa or a combination, I urge you to look around at the happenings in your city and be creative - I guarantee you that you will find lots of wonderful things to do that will fit any budget. Personally, nothing beats driving around looking at the amazing array of Holiday Lights with my hubby and daughter while Chanukah songs are playing in the car. . .