Tis the Season

For some reason during the holiday season I always hear people talking about how surprised they are at how generous and kind the general population is at this time of the year. And every time I hear it I can't help but to smirk. I think to myself hmmm...that is interesting because isn't that how we should live our lives on a daily basis? Whether you believe in Jesus, Buddha, Muhammad, or are an atheist doesn't matter because this a basic tenant that we try to live our lives by, right? You know, do unto others as you would want done unto you kind of thing?

I can't help but to say I feel the exact opposite at this time of year, which makes me dread the holiday season (yes, I say holiday because I have many friends who don't celebrate Christmas or the birth of Jesus) just as much as I LOVE it; because I DO love it! But, I feel that it is this time of year that brings the worst out in people. The, "I am the only one who matters, get out of my way, my life, kids and presents are better than yours" attitudes along with people's pure selfishness. The last two weeks I have witnesses so many accounts of this type of behavior that it has depressed me deeply as well as created a level of stress in my own life.

Seriously, in two weeks here are just a few of things I have witnessed:

Too many drivers COMPLETELY blowing through stop signs in store/mall parking lots to even count!
2 people running red lights that were REALLY red.
One old lady hitting my child in a grocery store-YES it did happen, and was beyond crazy and my claws came out on this one!
3 grocery store clerks getting their ears chewed off by customers for things they had no control of or responsibility for.
Being cut in front of twice while trying to shop for gifts.
And this list goes on, but I will leave it at this.


Why is this I wonder? Is it really THAT stressful this time of year? I just don't get it. The sad part of it all is that this always makes me want to stay in and do all of my shopping online, which is just not acceptable, especially with the economic condition of our state & country. So I venture out day after day just hoping to spread a little peace in this world and ofter a smile and kind word instead of a nasty growl and insult and I challenge you to do the same! :)

Monday Menus

Monday: Tuscan Beans w/sage, polenta cutlets w/ sun-dried tomatoes & fresh bread

Tuesday: Taco Bar Night

Wednesday: Homemade Pizza & Ceasar salad

Thursday: Ceasar Salad, Left-over Tuscan beans & polenta & fresh bread

Friday: Salad, Butternut Squash Soup & fresh bread

Saturday : Salad & Harvest Kale Pie

Sunday: Groundnut stew