We've all had those days - the weather is nasty, and car is making these strange noises, and you have a dental appointment. Breakfast is a grab and run affair, and lunch is pretty much the same. Now every- one is heading home and the evening is filled with homework, cleaning, dishes, and that tension headache that has been coming on all day.

Reality - most assuredly but as the saying goes "There is a silver lining...." The Holiday Season is here and it has all the bright colors, ribbons, and bells that make it shiny, exciting, and ... How could there be a silver lining when credit card bills rise, tempers flare, and fender benders are a dime a dozen? Well, let's back up just a bit. In fact, let's back up a whole lot. Remember as a child nothing could contain your enthusiasm, expectation, and fun. You woke up in a good mood, your day was filled with family, friends, and happiness, and at night you fell asleep and those sugar plums were dancing all around you. Ahem -

There is your silver lining - take back the Holidays - use your energy and not your wallet or credit card to bring joy to everyone - starting with your- self. Only a good night's sleep will put a twinkle in your eye, and only good vibes will get you through you day. Enjoy a delicious cup of hot cocoa and read a few pages from a good book, when it starts snowing grab the kids and "catch" those first flakes, say "Thank You", "Good Night" and "Please" to family as well as strangers. A word of praise to a
child doing his homework, or to Dad working on the bills opens the door to Christmas Joy.

At the check-out when someone is fumbling through their purse, don't sigh with impatience, see the brilliance of the lights and decorations; when a driver cuts in front of you, don't give him/her a new name, just take a deep breath, and sing a line from Jingle Bells. Silly - not at all - it's taking control of the situation and sprinkling some "Christmas magic" everywhere. A smile, holding a door, saying "Merry Christmas" or picking up something that someone dropped -they are the nourishment that the Christmas Spirit uses to heal harried nerves and tension headaches.

See a book someone might enjoy - make a very special bookmark to go with it - a picture of a favorite vacation spot, or a loved pet. The gift - well worth its weight in gold. Not handy or talented - or you just never tried - whichever, there are ribbons, glitter, and other inexpensive touches to add to any gift. A robe for grandpa with a handful of favorite mints in the pocket, a bowl of your best chili taken to a neighbor on a cold winter night, or a child's voice on a tape to a relative so far away. Just thinking of ways to bring happiness and joy returns the favor immediately - you feel happier, and the Christmas Spirit is alive and well - in you, your friends and family and the world - the glow of Christmas shines through the universe and you helped. Try it and ENJOY

©Arleen M. Kaptur 2003 November For a free newsletter, as well as some great gift ideas, please visit http://www.arleenssite.com