I have several goals this holiday season.  Surprise, one of them is not to worry about gaining the holiday weight.  I'm over that. 

I vow to avoid holiday burnout.  For me, burnout is created by starting to prepare for Christmas too far in advance.  I won't procrastinate and buy everything at the last minute, put I promise myself I will not obsess.  I always felt that if I got things done early, I would have more downtime as Christmas draws near.  But, that seema to backfire on me and just extended out my stressful period.

I also vow to involve my children more in volunteer opportunities this season.  They have always helped me pick out gifts for the families that we have adopted through various organizations.  But as they are getting older, I would like to involve them more and help them appreciate the reason for the season!

So much for my avoiding burnout by not pre-planning Christmast to far in advance.  I'll use this as a reminder to myself and others.  If you are out shopping sales, pick up extra childrnes socks, mittens, hats and underwear to donate.  Each year my childrens schools have had a christmas drive.  Black Friday is an excellent day to stock up on those donating staples.  When they are on sale, I can afford to help even more families!

Volunteer Opportunities in Columbia:

• Voluntary Action Center- 573-449-6959  http://www.vacmo.org/
• City of Columbia, Volunteer Service  http://www.gocolumbiamo.com/Volunteer/index.php

I'd be interested to hear some of the traditions you have created with your children to help put meaning into the season other than "I want that"!