Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas...

Merry, Merry Christmas! It's about 5:45am and although I wrapped my presents early, I'm wide awake - kind of like I was almost 25 years ago when I was a wee girl of 7!

If you're a fan of the holidays like I am, I'm hoping to take advantage of each every minute of it! Here are a few ways to enjoy what's left of this year's Christmas season:

Have at least one elaborate, sit-down meal. Take time to set the table and arrange your food family style. Orange juice in a wine glass? Tea in a cup with a saucer? Why the heck not?!? The holidays are the perfect excuse to have your meals in style! Enjoy conversation and laughter while you dine. Starting or spending the day solo? Accompany your sit-down meal with a book, newspaper or music. Avoid watching television so you can really take advantage of every second.

Wear comfortable clothes. For me, comfortable equals happy...and it's possible to be fashionable and comfortable simultaneously. Make sure that you wear clothing that doesn't constrict, reveal or requires too much adjusting - especially if you're headed to a gathering. When I find myself in any of these situations, I'm so worried about my outfit that I forget about what's going on around me! Ditto for hair, make-up and shoes - keep 'em simple if you can...

Don't take a ba-zillion photos. Sounds like an oxymoron, right? Taking photos are the only way to preserve memories! Wrong. I'm not saying to forgo photos altogether, but try to focus on a few that would capture key moments. I find that when I'm in charge of the camera, I'm so busy zooming in, finding the right light, focus, etc. that I miss what's really important - the reality of the moment. Rotating camera duties can be helpful, or try passing it on to a family member that doesn't mind missing out on the good stuff!

Play music all day long. My family and I listen to music all day on Christmas - starting at breakfast and ending right before bedtime. Keeping the music light and energetic gives your holiday a personal soundtrack. Set the volume to a normal level so you can still converse, eat, nap, etc. without feeling disturbed.

Laugh. Some people tend to forget this very important step! At a social gathering, team up with someone you know or zero in on the happy crowd. If you're alone this season, call up a friend or relative or watch a funny movie - do something that'll make you feel great!

Take a warm bath before bed. My mom swears that a long, warm bath before bed is the best feeling in the world. And nothing feels better after a hectic holiday shopping season. When the gifts are unwrapped, trash is thrown out, dishes are put away and everyone's in bed, enjoy the solo time - you've made it through another crazy year!

Have a wonderful Christmas!!! =)

xoxo andrea

On Being Fair to Yourself

In all of the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it suddenly dawned on me that during the mad rush of shopping, wrapping and giving, we forget to be fair to ourselves. I'm not saying to be a complete narcissist here, but to really incorporate some simple ways to remember that special someone...you! Here are a few tips to do just that:

• Don't stress out. The holidays are meant to be fun 'n festive. We tend to lose the joy of it all by getting impatient in long lines, running around like a mad person from store to store, looking for the perfect gift to get that special someone, etc. And if you're like me, you like to put some real thought into it. With exactly 1 shopping week left, it may help to make a list of all of your recipients with possible gift ideas and store locations. Then, group your shopping trips according to distance. Or, shop online! Most online retailers guarantee shipping by Christmas if you order by this weekend...

• Stick to a budget. This is a little tip I got from my mom and bro: Give yourself a spending limit for each person on your list. You may feel a bit restricted, so it might help to include a small window for a little splurge. Believe me, you'll be glad you did once you look at that January bill!

• Be "casual chic" on your holiday shopping adventures. Ok, this may seem really silly, but I truly believe that what you wear on the outside can help bring out your best on the inside. When I go shopping in track pants with haphazard hair and old gym shoes, I feel unhappy, lethargic and just plain out of it. No one's asking you to emulate Beyonce, but try doing your holiday errands in clothing that's comfortable and that you feel good in (there's a real difference!) Wear makeup if that's your thing and try a hairstyle that's practical yet stylish. Feeling great will help in boosting your mood and energy levels!
  

• Buy a little something for you. Gasp! Yourself?!? Yes! Now I don't mean a shopping spree...treat yourself to a great cup of coffee, lunch, a manicure, time with your favorite book or loved one in between your shopping frenzy. It won't kill you to take an hour out of your day and just relax. Also, it definitely helps in re-charging for your next round of activities!
  

• Don't hesitate in giving a homemade gift. If you have a hobby or just enjoy being creative, working on pastimes that inspire you can make perfect gifts. Whether it's a painting, framed photograph, knitted scarf, a sentimental letter on special stationary or a home cooked meal/dessert, not only are you doing something you love, but you are sharing it with someone special. Personally, I love homemade gifts! Nothing is more genuine than knowing that someone spent time thinking of you...

• Schedule a post-New Year's date. Whether it's with a significant other, family, friends, or yourself, make a plan to spend a few hours having fun in the near future...and stick to it! You'll already have something to look forward to in the new year.

I'm usually the type of person to keep going and going until I'm plain ol' exhausted, especially around this time of year. Today I simply asked myself, "Why?!?" This holiday season, I urge you to keep yourself in mind, as well as your loved ones. It's well-deserved! =)

xoxo andrea