Surely I am not alone when I say that this time of the year is always my favorite. From white chocolate peppermint mochas to the crisp, cold Northern air… Wood crackling in the fireplace and neighborhood houses decorated with twinkling lights…

Holiday parties, an overabundance of ugly Christmas sweaters, strolling carolers, and spiced eggnog… I could go on and on, but I think I have already set the scene.
Yes, December is sure to be a time full of holiday cheer for many. Whether it involves more time with the family, festive décor, or commemorative plans, holiday cheer seems to be easily contagious. However, as joyously infectious as it might seem, holiday cheer can quite quickly make a U-turn and get lost in the process of traveling, buying gifts, or making so many plans.

“On behalf of the DERMASCOPE team, we extend our warmest wishes for a safe and happy holiday season.”

While December might be intended for a month of giving, sometimes it is pushed down on the priority list because of tight schedules and even tighter budgets. When I think of this, one of my favorite Christmas quotes comes to mind. Citing a popular children’s book: “It came without ribbons! It came without tags! It came without packages, boxes or bags… Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before! ‘Maybe Christmas’ he thought, ‘doesn’t come from a store… Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more!’”
Just rereading the quote provides me with a moment to step back and an opportunity to gain a bit of perspective. I loosely interpret this to mean that the holiday cheer being spread was not intended for outdoing last year’s gifts or beating someone’s expectations. Instead, it could be a time spent for family, giving, love and gratitude. And that is something that I could definitely use a quick reminder on.
Whichever holiday it is you celebrate – Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas, or New Year’s – I would like to say happy holidays to you and yours. On behalf of the DERMASCOPE team, we extend our warmest wishes for a safe and happy holiday season. ‘Tis the season to eat, drink, and be merry!

Amanda Strunk Miller
Associate Publisher