With the holidays rapidly approaching and with each year passing by we have to remember the true value of the holiday season and the true purpose it holds. With that being said, here are some things to remember this Christmas:

1. Give gifts thoughtfully.

If you are like me and you are ballin' on a budget, that's okay. Just be thoughtful with your gifts, an inexpensive thoughtful gift often times means more than the newest pricey and thoughtless gadget.

2. Just answer the damn questions!

Yes your aunts and uncles and grandparents are all going to ask you a million and one questions when you see them over the holidays. Answer them. They care about you, they are not in your every day loop and they want to know what's going on. Yes some of them are repetitive or frustrating to answer, but 95% of the time they are not trying to frustrate you, they are trying to know you.

3. It is never too late to start a new tradition.

Try something new, get something started with your family. A few years ago we kicked mimosas into gear for Christmas morning and it kind of stuck. Find something for your family to make a habit of to make the holiday season even more special.

4. It is not about the presents!!

As amazing or awful as some of the gifts may be this holiday season, it is important to remember it is not all about the gifts. We are not celebrating money and material things, we are celebrating family, traditions, health, and happiness.

5. Mom still wants to carry out some of the silly traditions.

You may feel too old for some of mom's traditions, but let her have her fun. You are still her baby and frankly, she doesn't want to let that go. Give into her silly rituals and put a smile on her face this Christmas.

6. Spread love and spread joy.

Some people will forget what this season is all about, remind them, it will be far more satisfying than you can imagine. Spread love, spread laughter, and spread cheer.

xoxo,

Andrea