Dear Readers,

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is upon us. There are gifts to buy, parties to attend, food to cook, family to see, and many fun ways to celebrate.

This time of year is supposed to be the most festive, fun and relaxing of all. But, as much as I enjoy the spirit of the season I often find myself feeling like I am on a fast moving amusement park ride and everything is happening at warp speed. Don’t get me wrong, I still hold the Christmas season high above all others. I relish in the reason for the season, the parties, the shopping, the baking, the cards, the friends and family; I just wish it weren’t so hectic and crazy. Then, right on the heels of our carb and cookie sugar high, comes New Year’s Eve when we are expected to slam on the brakes and reflect on what we’ve done during the last year and where we hope to go in the new year.

Well this year, I’m making an early resolution. I vow to stop the madness way before December 31. Instead of fostering the habit of quickly moving along and always asking, “What’s next?” I will relish the last few weeks of this year. I’m going to rejoice in the past year and all I have to be thankful for. I’m going to look forward to 2016, not just as a change in digits from 15 to 16, but as an opportunity for new beginnings, hopeful possibilities, and great moments.

I encourage you to do the same. Take time to reflect and feel a sense of accomplishment. My holiday wish for you is that you stop and savor the moment. Enjoy every second of the rest of 2015. Because that is the true gift of the holiday season.

Happy Holidays,

Amy Hines, Editor
[email protected]