A few suggestions to help all of us make it to New Year’s Day happy and healthy

As if the holidays didn’t roll around fast enough, people were lighting up their houses with festive Christmas lights the day after Halloween. It’s obvious people are ready for some joy.

For those who are gritting their teeth and wish they could just sleep through the month of December, take deep breaths and get in the spirit. If someone calls you Scrooge, you’ll know you haven’t taken on the fun and joy and calories of the holiday season. Or maybe you’re like a friend of mine who claims to hate Christmas but can put away more sugar cookies than Santa on Christmas eve.

I love this time of year. So much so that my friends and family make fun of me. That’s OK, I figure if one Christmas tree is good, five is five times better.

Speaking of decorating, remember all the stuff you get out, you have to put away and store it until next year. I wrote that on the December page of my date book as a reminder. Didn’t help.

Because I’ve taken celebrating very seriously for so many years, I’ve jotted down a few suggestions to help all of us make it to New Year’s Day happy and healthy .

With the election behind us, do NOT bring up politics at ANY gathering. Even if you’re sure everyone you’re talking to has the same opinion as you, don’t do it. Same with religion.

Refrain from telling a big eater, “Man you can pack it away, you have a hollow leg or something?” That’s just rude.

Even if you think being a vegetarian or a vegan is nonsense, don’t comment. Don’t ask questions, don’t give your opinion, just let them find something on the table they will eat.

While you’re Christmas shopping, put your phone away. No one cares that you’re upset with “the idiot next door,” or who in your family is getting a divorce, or how awful the food was at the party you went to last night. Focus on getting that shopping finished and get out of the store. If you were talking on the phone walking into the mall you’ll probably have to search for your car.

At a busy mall or big box store where some people have to walk a half mile from their parking place to the store. These people in search of a parking place would appreciate it if you would get in your car, back up and give them your spot. But noooo, people get in their cars, get on their phones while shoppers wait for them to leave.

But don’t honk at the phone person or make violent gestures because it will only make the person sit there longer. And don’t even think for one minute you can park in a handicapped spot unless you are permitted to.

Also, speaking of parking lots, if someone slides right into the parking space you have been patiently waiting for, don’t get out and beat the tar out of the person. The guy ringing the Salvation Army bell at the door of the store will report you to Santa.

Be patient with clerks ringing you up or helping you. They might be temporary holiday help trying to learn the retail ropes. They are under more stress than you. Unless you’re shopping late on Christmas Eve — then I guess it would be a tie.

And please don’t try to be Martha Stewart. After all, we don’t have the staff she has helping her do everything perfectly in a timely manner.

When you’re shopping for a gift, think of what they like, not what you wish they liked. For example if you buy a trendy piece of clothing, you might hear, “Humm, this must be tagged wrong. I would never wear this.” Speaking from experience here.

If you have December survival suggestions, please share.

Stay calm and carry on. Have a wonderful holiday season.