I think this holiday season will be more about our connections with friends and families than it will be about the gifts we buy or the parties we attend.  The holiday season can be better than ever before if you take some time now to think about what your favorite part of the holiday tradition really is and focus your efforts on that.

I was thinking about my memories of Thanksgivings past.  I loved the relaxed pace throughout the day, playing some games, reading a book, conversations, laughter and of course the good food.  I realized that if we cooked for Thanksgiving this year, I wouldn't find that relaxed pace.  I'd be spending my time watching the clock to see when one thing was done or another should go in the oven.  So I suggested to my family that we eat out.  We wouldn't have to cook, we wouldn't have to clean up and I wouldn't be tempted to keep eating for days and days.  So we're heading up to Volcano for Thanksgiving, enjoying what will, I'm sure, be a great meal at the Kilauea Lodge and then take some time to hike in the Volcanoes National Park.  I'll be spending my Thanksgiving exactly how I want -- relaxed and in good company.

If you want to make this holiday season more relaxed and have the time to enjoy the people in your life, here are some things to think about and maybe try.