The Hustle...

...and bustle has begun. Of course, it's nothing like years past where by now you could really tell people were gearing up for The Holidays and some Xmas shopping here in Las Vegas, but it is none-the-less in the air. After all the horror stories of Black Friday shopping across the nation gone terrible awry, I am somewhat disheartened about how and why we celebrate Christmas today. We have really forgotten what the reason for the season is. 

On the up side, I see more of a trend towards shopping small and being more conscientious than ever before as well. I believe it's a pretty delicate balance these days with the ability to shop for almost anything online, but it's good to see those truly committed to their own communities, doing a lot of local shopping from the smaller retailers, and supporting area artists and hand crafters. 

I have also seen the tree lots cropping up, and my first tree shoppers with the big green bundles strapped to the tops of their cars. I personally use a faux tree and greenery because I'm pretty green in my home, but that's not to say I don't love to see the real trees some too. Sadly, I think that's one of those things we will see less and less of as time goes by as well. 

I think it's time now to look at the way we are doing our celebrating and shopping and decide if it's the right way for you. I've never worried about going against the status quo, and have always done things just how they fit me, in spite of popular opinion. I think everyone should do the holidays the way that best fit them. I try to reach out a little more, think of things that I think will be appreciated beyond the trappings of the season, and do things I think will support my community and my peers more than simply buying gifts for my immediate family and friends. 

And that of course means finding some good to do. Random acts of kindness are wonderful all year but now I start thinking about those far less fortunate than I am, who are cold, troubled, and yes, sometimes addicted. I might not think giving a $5 bill to a junkie is a good idea, but I do know that Walgreens has little fleece blankets for that same $5 bucks. And my husband and I find that a hot cup of coffee, tea, or soup, is rarely turned down. We know we're not saving the world, but genuine kindness towards someone in need IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON. That and a spiked eggnog or a lovely body warming cocktail with friends after a long week or a hard afternoon of shopping...Just sayin' 

Be big, shop small this year. Support your own community with your Christmas shopping dollars. Reach outside your circle and your comfort zone. I promise you, you will feel it, and it's a good feeling. So for now, I'm just asking you to maybe enjoy your shopping as much as you would the holiday itself, say hello to old friends, or make some new ones. Hang out a little longer, laugh a little more. Make this year the first year of doing it your way.... 

...and have a Happy (and green) December!! ...pun intended...xo