In an ideal world, holidays would bring all families closer together and heal all wounds. Parents, stepparents, ex-spouses, children and grandparents would embrace each other in perfect harmony, and family…
For many families, drinking alcohol is a way to celebrate something. The good cheer of the holiday season is liberally laced with wine. We use champagne and liquor to show…
It’s not always easy to keep New Year’s resolutions. Sometimes there just doesn’t seem to be enough time, energy or willpower to accomplish everything. Don’t despair! If you spend some…
“Life,” as M. Scott Peck said in his book, The Road Less Traveled, “is difficult.” I give him credit for saying it like it is. Life is difficult. The universe…
The holiday season has started and I’m often reminded of an elderly friend of mine. Whenever someone said “Have a happy holiday!” she always replied, “No, make it one.” She…
It’s been a harsh winter. Spring is taking its time getting here. It may seem like summer is forever away but it really is time to start planning. Summer vacation…
I find human behavior fascinating. For example, I have a friend who, for 355 days of the year, is happily single. Oh, sure, she dates from time to time, but…
If you’re planning a trip during the festive season, you’re not alone. Everyone else seems to be traveling, too. The holiday season accounts for nearly 10 percent of all miles…
“But we always have mixed nuts at Thanksgiving!” “But we always have turkey for Christmas dinner!” “But we always have the youngest child open the first Hanukkah present (this protested…
I thought I’d write a few words about the holidays and the blues, because this is the time of the year people commonly experience feelings of depression, sadness, and loss…
“From ghoulies and ghosties and long-leggedy beasties and things that go bump in the night, good Lord, deliver us!” ~ An old Scottish prayer Watching a friend struggle to create…
The stress of the holidays triggers sadness and depression for many people. This time of year is especially difficult because there’s an expectation of feeling merry and generous. People compare…
I truly believe that people are well-meaning. But when it comes to helping others through their loss, some of us just don’t have the skills to aid a grieving individual. We…
An adult daughter searches for the joy in the season, despite memories of distressing family scenes. I love the holidays. I really do. Give me cold weather outdoors, a crackling…
You know the scene. It looks so warm and cozy and loving. The large, smiling family is gathered around an exquisitely laid-out table, brimming with beautifully prepared food. All of…