TIP OF THE DAY - SUNDAY

FOCUS ON PEOPLE. Too often, food takes center stage of our holiday gatherings. Instead, focus on your loved ones, activities, and other traditions that make the holidays meaningful.
I love this tip. There is nothing better for one's self esteem or to make someone feel good than to have family around. When I think none of my children or grandchildren are going to be around for the Christmas holidays I get so depressed and sad I don't recognize myself. I don't know why either, I am thrilled that my children are grown and have children of their own and that they are doing well and have their own family traditions but I can't help being sad and lonely. Well enough of the self pity. This is a great tip. Enjoy all gatherings with family and don't center it around food. It isn't necessary.

NEW FESTIVE LOOK TO THE BLOG...

WOW! ISN'T THIS A GREAT NEW LOOK TO THE BLOG? I am assuming that Laurie did this for us. I just love this new look. It just screams "MERRY CHRISTMAS" so let me be the first, no the second to wish you all a "MERRY CHRISTMAS" from Calvin and I and this blog. Wow I am really going to love this Christmas season, and no stressing!
Yeah right.

TIP OF THE DAY - SATURDAY

TRY HEALTHIER RECIPES. When treats are in the house, more of the dessert usually ends up in your belly than in your guests. So keep low fat, low-calorie recipes and foods on hand.
I have in the past made lots and lots of cookies and candies. One year I made more than 60 dozen cookies plus a dozen different candies. They were great but I did eat an awful lot of them. This year I am going to make just 2 treats. I am going to make some cake balls and a batch of oreo balls. I am going to give them all away, well 99% of them anyway. Remember you are not the only one trying to watch what they eat this time of year.

TIP OF THE DAY - FRIDAY

SPLURGE WISELY. The holidays only come once a year, but the parties, events, and gifts of food never seem to end! Decide ahead of time which ones are really worth splurging for, and leave the other food on the table.
An extra little tip from me to add to this. DON'T tell yourself you will just taste each one or just have one cookie or a very small piece of cake. History proves, "THIS NEVER WORKS!"

TIP OF THE DAY - THURSDAY

STAY ACTIVE. Don't mistake being "busy" for being "active". You still need to exercise at least 30 minutes each day. Break it up into a few smaller sessions throughout the day if you're pressed for time.
This is a great tip for all through the year. We often get busy with day to day events and think that since we were busy that should take the place of exercising and I guess according to this tip that being busy does not count as exercising. Makes sense.

TIP OF THE DAY - WEDNESDAY

TAKE INVENTORY. Identify all the situations (office parties, mall food courts, family gatherings) that make it difficult for you to eat healthy during the holiday season. Make a plan for staying on track in every situation.
Make a plan for anything or situation that may come up this next month. Play the game, "what if", what if I am so busy at work I don't get a lunch, can I eat more at dinner? what if we have a snow day and I can't get to the store for healthy snacks, or what if it is a red day and we can't use the wood stove, like today, it is just too cold to do anything but eat, hot foods and sit bundled up in a blanket. I need to be better prepared for days like this. Are you ready for winter and weather changes not planned on or prepared for.

NEW MONTH...NEW THEME

31 DAYS TO HEALTHIER HOLIDAYS. Gathering with close friends and family members during the holidays creates lasting joy and memories, But with so many parties, celebrations and errands to run, it can be hard to keep up with your healthy lifestyle! Here are 31 daily tips that will help you make healthy choices throughout the holiday season.
Here is hoping these tips help us all make it through the Christmas season without gaining too much weight.