Anyone else out there still feeling the sheer weight and lethargy from Thanksgiving?  I am!  It is Wednesday, I am still exhausted and my pants are uncomfortably snug already.  I guess it is that time of year again and it probably won't calm down until after the New Year.  Ugghhh...

So, does it have to be this way?  I figure that I do have options here.  The church we recently became members of is embracing "Christmas Different" this year.  Basically, don't spend all your time in the mall or swiping the credit card for money you don't actually have on gifts.  Rather spend that time with family and friends and try homemade gifts, potlucks, singing Christmas carols and loving on people.  Can it be done?  I definitely believe one can be successful at this if they want.  Will that include me?  I don't know but one can try.

In the realm of health, last night I walked long after the sun had set and finally the rainy drizzle had ceased.  Also, I was pretty excited that I was able to turn down the Peanut M&Ms offered to me with noticeable self-control.  I didn't even have to excuse myself from the room while my dad enjoyed the colorful sweets.  I love sweets!  If I eat one, before I know it I have eaten half the 5lb bag.  Will this continue?  Who am I kidding?  Probably not.

How about you?  What do the holidays feel like to you?  Do you dread them or do they awaken a part of you that leaps for joy during this season?  What traditions does your family take part in that my be outside the norm for our society?