Three Steps to Holiday Joy: Deck the Halls, Send the Cards, and Bake Gingersnaps

Amidst the frenzy, baking gingersnaps is a cherished tradition, infusing the air with the warmth of spices and memories. It's a moment to pause and savor the simple pleasures of sharing homemade treats with those we love, encapsulating the essence of holiday joy.

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A New Resolve

Last year I wrote about seasons of resolutions, which is my approach to adopting new habits a few months at a time in the New Year. Each quarter is an opportunity to grow and learn, and this process keeps me motivated throughout the year. I usually approach it with a spirit of renewal and change, with clarity and resolve.

This year, resolve has new meaning.

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The (Not Always) Happiest Time of the Year

love Christmas, every part. Cookies and food and seasonal music, yes, please. I make menus and gift lists, and I obsess about all the details. The kids and I count down to Santa’s visit, and the Elf on the Shelf (his name is Bubbles) is in full effect every night.

This essay should be right up my tinsel-laden alley.

But not this year. 

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How the Flu Saved Christmas

‘Twas two weeks before Christmas and inside my brain
Were To Do’s and Lists, long and insane.
So much to get done, all tasks fall to me
From purchasing presents to trimming the tree.

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Me, My Elf and I

The boys are counting down the days this week until Bubbles the Elf returns from the North Pole, and almost every morning from December 1 to the 24th they are brimming with excitement, jumping up and down in their footed Christmas pajamas, begging to go find what that little Elf has been up to overnight.

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