Holiday Deadlines!

Whether you're making a living writing, or perhaps in an honorable profession (ha-ha, couldn't resist...) you may be juggling the normal workload on top of all the holiday's gaiety and insanity that ensues this time of year whether we like it or not. Somehow our best laid plans run up against end-of-the-year deadlines, expectations and traditions; it's a pressure cooker of a combination!

I used to play catch-up by working late into the night. The wee hours are a great time to get things done-no phones ringing, no last minutes issues at work, no one else up to get in your way except maybe the dog...but he's keeping your feet warm, so you can't really complain. These days, however, I find I'd rather be catching Z's than facing down a blank 'page' on my laptop. As much as I like that cocoon of privacy the nighttime offers, my daytime demands that I give my brain cells adequate rest.

I've toyed with rising early...it sounds so simple, but I've never been a morning person (even though I married one) just ask my family! That leaves the daytime and, like everyone else, I have to squeeze in the necessary along with all the extras that come along this time of the year.

So here's the deal...I'll cut you slack this month if you'll do the same for me. Maybe the best gift we could all give each other is a little less stress...and some sympathy. Hang in there, it'll be January soon enough, and we'd hate to miss out on the joy of the season!

(ps...I'd love to know how you keep your cool, decompress and juggle stress this time of the year-please share any wisdom in the comments below!)

photo courtesy of acelebrationofwomen.org