The Holidays are upon us

Can you believe it’s December already? This year has FLOWN by, As a business owner and working Mom, I’m planning year-end holiday activities for both family and business. My goal is to infuse the holidays with joy & vitality – while simplifying our plans and reducing stress wherever possible.

IMG_3430This year, our theme is renewal. We’re reviewing our family traditions – and updating ones that have grown stale through obligation and repetition.

Step 1 was our Thanksgiving Restaurant Experiment – which I wrote about here. It was SO FUN – amazing meal, great view, awesome gaming friends,  and no travel/dishes/stress = much happiness.IMG_3462

Step 2 is our Hanukkah Simplicity plan – eight nights of candle-lit family dinners with small useful gifts & built-in gratitude rituals – capped by a Games & Music party with dear friends and extended family. We’re right in the middle of it – so far, so wonderful.

pacificbeachview_1710_r2Step 3 is Christmas in Cabo – something I’ve longed to do for years. We’re ditching the crowded malls & shopping frenzy for a week of sun, swimming, snorkling, & reading.

For me, being in nature is a spiritual and deeply renewing experience. I’m so looking forward to sharing the trip with my family – and sharing highlights and reflections with you, my online tribe.

Research in positive psychology has revealed that happiness really IS looking forward to your vacation. So tell me: what are YOU looking forward to over the holidays?  I’d love to hear about it in the comments, or on Twitter.