Happy holidays! I hope this letter finds you in a joyful holiday spirit. This time of the year is certainly my favorite. Taking the time off from my everyday schedule gives me a chance to recharge for the upcoming New Year, as well as spend quality with my husband and kids. For the past few years, we have been traveling to visit my family and, if we are lucky, spend time in the snow. But no matter where we are, we love taking part in the long-standing traditions my family has kept; traditions of baked ham and sweets, games, parties, gift exchanges, and perusing the neighborhood Christmas light displays. We have even added a few new traditions that will hopefully be passed down to my children.
While this season is always portrayed with good tidings and cheer, we all know how easily we can get swept up in the holiday madness. While it can happen to everyone – the holiday stress of what Santa needs to bring this year, finding the right present for your mother-in-law, attending one too many parties, or swiping the credit card a few too many times – I try to bring my thoughts back to less stressful things. Stresses can interfere with the joy and peace that surround the holiday season. So it is during this time of year that I make a conscious effort to not stress; instead, I fill my days with activities that make me enjoy and appreciate this time of year even more.
Stress-free events can be as simple as gazing at your Christmas tree, preparing a fresh batch of cookies, or crafting some homemade gifts. I feel as though happiness and harmony surround my tree, pushing positive emotions into my heart. It is during this month that I love to sit on my couch with a steaming cup of coffee and a comforting blanket. Cozy in front of the Christmas tree, I simply admire the twinkling lights, glistening tinsel, and the ongoing array of beautiful ornaments. I sit and think about the past year and all that I have achieved – the successes and joys, the trials and tribulations. For me, it is a time to reflect on all that I love and appreciate in my life. I love how the season recharges me and motivates me for the upcoming year. I love all the caring and sharing that happens during the holiday season.
My holiday wish for you is to have a stress-free season. I hope you get to enjoy your friends, your family, and all the good tidings that come this time of year. I hope you take some time to recharge yourself. Remember so many people depend on you. You will have plenty of time next month to make new goals and chart out your future so enjoy the holidays and remember that it is a season for family, friends, love and reflection. We all have so much to be grateful for.
On behalf of DERMASCOPE Magazine, we wish you all a safe and joyous holiday season and an exceptional 2014, filled with peace, prosperity, health and achievement of all your goals.
Amanda Strunk Miller
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