Often, when you are going through a major life transition, it's difficult to conjure up the holiday spirit. Maybe you're dealing with financial woes or relationship issues, or maybe you're just too tired to trim the tree or deck the halls.  Yet, like many of life's challenges, the holidays can be an opportunity to grow if you can find the keys to open the door and let in the joy and magic.  To help you, we'd like to offer some ideas on how to find the holiday spirit:

1. Be nostalgic. Although you can't turn back time, you can feel transported to your youth at the old Jordan Marsh Enchanted Village (now at Jordan's Furniture). Or snuggle up with a blanket, some popcorn and maybe some friends to watch the timeless "ball" drop on Times Square with Dick Clark.
2. Do for others. Look around and see if your neighbor needs some help. Shovel their walk (or clear out the remaining leaves), bake some cookies and stop by for a conversation. Take the time to do something nice for someone else.
3. Attend a holiday pageant at your child's school (or that of another relative, friend or neighbor). Something delightful happens when you are around acting and singing six-year-olds. They put so much effort and energy into their performance and there is always a surprise, unscripted scene in every show!
4. Donate to Toys for Tots or other local charity. Make a child smile this holiday season.
5. Read an inspiring story. Revisit the children's book The Polar Express or pick up an adult fiction novel by Richard Paul Evans who pens magical stories with a holiday theme.
6. Spend time with people you love. This year, consider giving the gift of your time to adult family members and friends. Plan an activity to do together or offer to babysit so parents can have time alone.  The memories you create will most likely last longer than gifts you'd exchange.
7. Listen to holiday music. According to Elf, singing a carol is the best way to conjure up the holiday spirit. You can find stations that play nonstop holiday songs (like 105.7FM) or load up your favorites onto your ipod. If you're already caroled out, try the recordings of Vince Guaraldi or George Winston to soothe your winter's soul.
8. Listen to your body.  With November's time change, reduced daylight hours, hectic schedules and erratic weather, we can end up sleep deprived, undernourished and depleted. Make sure you respond to your body's needs- go to bed early, take naps, eat well and dress warm. Don't greet the New Year with exhaustion or the flu.
9. Spend time on your own. Once the holiday season begins, there are nonstop gatherings, festivities and activities on your to-do list which can enhance your joy or deplete your energy. Give yourself permission to decline an invitation- you don't have to attend everything.

Like everything else, the holidays are a moment in time. In a few short weeks they will be gone and replaced by resolutions and forward motion. We hope you will take the steps to enjoy the magic of the moment and the possibilities this season can bring!