December 26th is National Thank You Note Day. That shouldn’t really surprise anyone, should it? I mean, we just got through the biggest gift exchange of the year. Sending out a few thank yous is the logical next step. Most etiquette experts agree that the sooner you write those notes, the better. My mother was never a stickler for thank you notes, but my grandmother was. I have my own kids write notes for their birthday gifts before they can play with them. That guarantees they’ll get done quickly. Who hasn’t reminded a child to use the “magic” words of Read More
Recovering Perfectionist: Being Okay With Okay
My name is Leah, and I am a recovering perfectionist. It has taken me over 20 years to get comfortable with the fact that nothing I do or say is going to be perfect. I used to worry about offending people by saying the wrong thing, stress out over my house not being perfectly clean for visitors, and I never wanted to accept help from others because they might not “do it right.” In recent years, I have made a persistent and dedicated effort to let things go. And it’s paying off. Most of the time, I can honestly say Read More
10 Favorite Books from 2016
I am an avid reader and I’m always excited to share my favorite books. I set a goal for myself each year to read 50 books. This year I reached 75 (so far…still have a few days left!). Goodreads.com is what I use to keep track of what I’ve read, how much I liked it, and what I want to read next. If you haven’t joined Goodreads, I highly recommend it. I’ve been a member for 10 years now. You can share recommendations with your friends, read reviews from other readers, and even enter book giveaways. Who doesn’t love a Read More
Why Being Wished a Happy Holidays is not Offensive to Me
I celebrate Christmas. My house is decked in lights and my tree is sparkling in the living room. There is an evergreen wreath is on my front door. I collect nativity sets from all over the world. I send cards that specifically say “Merry Christmas”. Christmas is my favorite holiday. I love the music, the decorations, the gift-giving, and the religious significance. And when someone wishes me a “Happy Holidays,” I say “Thank you” and wish them the same. It does not offend me. I have a friend who is Jewish. He wishes me a Happy Hanukkah. I thank him Read More