My goal for the holiday season is a simple one. I’m determined to slow down.

I was behind a woman walking into a store yesterday. She was just peacefully strolling along. I, on the other hand, was wondering why she was going so slowly. I rarely stroll; I zip.

Shopping, for me, is goal oriented. Browsing is not part of the routine. Yesterday, my target was a white blouse, so that’s all I looked at. All the time wondering why I hadn’t just ordered it from LandsEnd. I’m not a good shopper. My guess is that I miss a lot by my drive to get out of the store as quickly as possible.

Then there was the stop at the library. I dashed in to return a book and left without even looking at the collection of new books, convincing myself that it was the holidays and I wouldn’t have time to read. Well, you know what? I do have time to read; I just don’t let myself take the time.

So that’s my goal. To keep things simple and relaxed this year. To avoid the frenzy, and focus on the joy.