It’s That Time of the Year!

“Christmas is like candy; it slowly melts in your mouth, sweetening every taste bud, making you wish it could last forever.” — Richelle E. Goodrich

Happy holidays to all. Here we go! This time of year is so very busy…and so much fun. There’s the gift shopping, the family get-togethers, the decorating…and all the memories to create.

In the past, I was not very good at coming up with Christmas gift ideas, but then I got a great tip from Manny. He said, “Just listen throughout the year, and you will get hints as to what will be great ideas.” He was right! Now I keep notes on my phone throughout the year so I don’t feel stumped when the holidays are approaching. I refer to this list all year long, whenever I’m out around town and see something that I think someone I love…would love!

I am a big list maker, and this habit comes in handy this time of year. There are the stocking stuffers, the gifts under the tree, the experience gifts like events, travel, gift cards—the gifts that truly make memories. 

When my kids were little, my Christmas Eve was spent wrapping gifts, filling the stockings, and putting together those items that warned “some assembly required.” A little stressful? Yes…but the looks on my kids’ faces were worth the effort!

My granddaughters are 13 (McKenna) and 19 (Savannah) now, so I no longer spend Christmas Eve assembling toys. I admit that it can be a little challenging to come up with the right gift ideas. I’ve learned that they appreciate gift cards to their favorite store, restaurant, or spa. Back in my day, the only entertainment venues were the local movie theaters. Now, Omaha has entertainment centers that all ages can enjoy! If you need gift ideas, look through this issue to start the ideas flowing.

Manny has pulled out the Christmas decorations to get going on making this another terrific holiday season. He loves to decorate for the holidays. It is such a joy to walk into the house with lights twinkling and holiday music playing. It’s a wonderful, magical feeling.

Happy holidays to all of you! Let’s decide to enjoy every minute of this holiday season. Take some deep breaths and know that in the blink of an eye, it will all be over. Enjoy!