T'is the season to be jolly, tra-la-la-la-la. It is also the season where most people get stressed including me. It is the onslaught of the holidays, gift buying and hosting parties. That doesn't bother me too much as I usually have that under control. It is the oncoming Mistletoe Ball that has been a challenge and would be to the greatest of veterans. We have just wrapped up two large booklets... or should I say I have just wrapped up two large booklets: a 48-page programme book and a 36 page auction catalogue. Everyday there were changes. Everyday there was a new problem. All this goes with leadership I suppose. The Mistletoe Ball is 10 days from now and although most of the big stuff has been done there is still table seating and dealing with the daily complaints. There is something to be said if you don't do anything there is nothing to criticize. If you give people options to participate, they will and not always favourably.
I have just come back from 4 days in New York. What a treat that was. It was just what the doctor ordered. I needed a break away. I am a great list maker whether it is menus, to-do lists, or just to focus on making the holidays more manageable. For the last two weeks I haven't weighed in because the church where Weight Watchers is held, was having their Christmas Bazaar and I was away in New York the second week. My plan was at least to keep the status quo weight-wise.
So this is how I am coping with the mad rush of parties, the chairing of a major event, and coming of Chanukah, travelling, Christmas and New Year's. First of all, don't let Santa be the only one making a list and checking it twice. Make your own list and keep very organized. As far as food is concerned, eat pizza with your friends but only 1 or 2 slices. Munch on meringues. They are lower in calories or points than other desserts. Hold the cheese please. Make mini muffins from a recipe that calls for bigger ones. Instead of leaving them in the oven for 25 minutes, leave them in for 12 minutes. You can even eat a candy cane. The smell of the menthol will pep you up.
There are other ways too that don't involve food to fill this holiday season with happiness, health, joy and inspiration. There is always the power of flowers, or pretty things with nice scents. Also, helping others increases your own level of gratefulness and positive emotions. A cheery attitude increases the chances that people around you feel warm and fuzzy too. Hold hands with your sweetie to calm and counter stress. Treat yourself to a facial. I did in New York. Hit the snooze button and bolster your immunity. I have done that too. If you are tired coping becomes more difficult. Pamper your peds. I did that this week too. Buy a new lipstick or make-up. It seems I have bought a few lipsticks lately. Then plan your next vacation.
Even if yesterday was a challenge. Today can be a fresh start. This season should be the season to be jolly with more joy and less stress.
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