{"id":213,"date":"2017-12-01T12:14:56","date_gmt":"2017-12-01T12:14:56","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.booksbytesajones.com\/?p=213"},"modified":"2017-12-01T12:14:56","modified_gmt":"2017-12-01T12:14:56","slug":"ready-or-not","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.booksbytesajones.com\/?p=213","title":{"rendered":"Ready or Not . . ."},"content":{"rendered":"

After two weeks of traveling, book signings and book clubs, I am HOME.\u00a0 It was an exciting, successful and event-packed adventure.\u00a0 I loved being with family for Thanksgiving and truly enjoyed seeing “old fans” and meeting so many “new fans” at the Barnes & Noble and other book events!\u00a0\u00a0 Your enthusiasm and support inspire me.\u00a0 Thank you!<\/p>\n

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As I sit in my comfy Lazy-Boy chair sipping on my morning coffee, I realize I have not written on my BLOG for two Wednesdays!\u00a0 I also realize I have not focused on Christmas, decorated my house, addressed my Christmas cards or bought a single present for my five adorable grandchildren.<\/p>\n

Is anyone else in this “boat” with me — or am I floating alone in this dilemma?<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

I love, love, LOVE Christmas.\u00a0 My normal pattern is to have my gifts purchased, wrapped and hidden in the closest by the end of the Thanksgiving Weekend so I can relax, enjoy the festivities with family & friends and buy a few additional gifts at my leisure during the hectic December shopping season.\u00a0 Obviously, I am not following my typical routine!\u00a0 In fact, I am close to panic mode.\u00a0 Any suggestions?<\/strong><\/p>\n

What do you do when life gets chaotic?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Normally, I exercise; however, I am trying to figure out how to include that in my busy schedule.\u00a0 I suppose the first thing I should do is finish my coffee, get out of my Lazy-boy chair and start checking some of those “things” off of my “to-do list.”<\/p>\n

As we head into the joyous Christmas season . . . I hope to take the same advice that I am going to give you . . .\u00a0 relax, savor the moment and enjoy the PEOPLE in your life.\u00a0 If you are not able to be with family — find some friends\u00a0 or neighbors who are also alone — create an event together — reach out to people who are in need of warm hugs and companionship.\u00a0 In my humble opinion — these are the most rewarding moments of the season.<\/p>\n

God bless you and wrap you with a peaceful heart.
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