Get a grip on the holidays before they arrive

Even while all eyes are on the election and the markets, something else is coming over the horizon, too. Thanksgiving will be here soon, marking the beginning of the holiday season. We will want to throw ourselves into the fun of the holidays — music, events, parties, foods and décor — from Halloween to New Year's Day. So let's take hold of that warm rosy vision and introduce it to your actual available time, energy and resources. Let this month's good planning be your ticket to an enjoyable season. Don't try to do everything What if all of the expensive efforts we're struggling to provide our family aren't really essential to their happiness? Choose less madness and more merry. Forget perfectionism, and unrealistic expectations. Envision a good holiday First, decide what elements you love most about the season. Maybe it's... [read full story]