December 2021

As colorful lights adorn yards and holiday wish lists are shared with loved ones, the winter season brings with it much more than wonder, joy and cheer. The travel days, shopping excursions, holiday parties and happy reunions can create moments of exhaustion and stress for those who consider themselves to be the most festive. • Children are susceptible to feeling the changes associated with the holiday season, especially when it comes to their daily routines. Although maintaining consistent routines can be challenging at any point of the year, once schools observe holiday breaks, it makes it much more difficult, even if the changes are well-intentioned. • According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children do best when routines are regular, predictable and consistent. Dr. Seema Csukas, vice president and market chief medical officer for Georgia at CareSource in Atlanta, shares how families can manage their children’s routines to foster a peaceful and merry season for all.

What makes a good rom-com? Start with a little conflict, throw in a few gut-busting laughs, and add some moments of melancholy and swoon-worthy scenarios that will sweep even the most jaded readers off their feet.

In this season of what seems to be never ending hustle and bustle, it’s nice to enjoy some down time. Sometimes I wonder if that is one of the primary benefits of having a cup of hot chocolate. It can’t be hurried, but instead savored slowly. Just the act of holding the steamy mug is comforting, and the taste is soul soothing.