Hi from the snow-covered, picture-postcard-perfect winter wonderland of the midwest!

I’m here snuggled up in my parents’ warm house, spending lots of time with my folks and youngest brother (my oldest brother arrives on Friday). I’ve already had family reunions, seen dear friends, taken my dad out on Starbucks outings (his favorite), and spent time with mom shopping for 5 gorgeous children that she “adopted” for the holidays.

United Way has a special program to support families in need during the holidays — so as usual, we’re making sure to give this family a Christmas to remember! (I think dad is still in the living room working on the remote control cars…)

Mom and I were up late last night talking about other ways we could keep giving back throughout the year –– making a difference not just during the holidays, but every day.

Being of service is of utmost important in my family. I’m sure it is in yours, too. And we always want to be making the biggest positive impact possible with the time, money and energy we have (who doesn’t?).

Make a list or do some research of some people, places or organizations that you'd love to serve this year. And review it regularly: Add to it, ask your friends what they recommend, and continue to research... We aren't here to focus solely on ourselves - it's one of the biggest problems facing human beings today. We are meant to live as a collective, where everyone is a part of the whole, and we care for one another, as we do for ourselves. (But it's easy for our brains to forget this a million times a day.)

So, that’s all for now. I hope it served you and those you choose to support.

Sending lots of holiday hugs and love your way!

PS/Just for fun: My mom has a bit of a “Santa” fettish! Here she is, all dolled up for the holidays (Isn’t she adorable?):