Greetings!

It's that time of year when many of us go into overdrive preparing for the holidays. With so much going on during the busy month of December, I make a conscious effort to do two important things: look back at the year that was and ahead to the one that will be. My wish is for you to take some time to do the same. As you reflect upon 2011, I hope you recall fond memories. As you look ahead, I hope you anticipate an even better 2012.

During your reflections, consider your fitness goals. We know how easy it can be for the pounds we may have worked so hard to shed to slowly creep back. What awareness can you bring to your eating and exercise habits this season that will help you stay on track? When temptations seem to lurk everywhere, and our spare moments are few, we are more vulnerable. However, a little forethought can go a long way.

Consider setting some extra time aside for exercise, which can help not just with burning calories but also stress relief. Be aware of portion sizes as you're faced with lots of high-calorie, delicious holiday treats. Never leave your house hungry, and remember to include some lean protein in each meal or snack. Be aware of your pitfalls, and come up with workable strategies to avoid (or at least minimize) them. And, as always, stay hydrated!

As I end this year filled with gratitude and looking forward to an exciting 2012, I wish you all health and happiness.

Don Spence

P.S. If you get a chance, come see the World Famous Big Toe Studio Christmas lights! 

We're so excited to introduce a wonderful new shopping experience in Old Town Fort Collins! Rain, a lovely boutique owned and operated by our very own Kristin Mouton, sells "refreshingly wearable women's clothing with a sprinkling of unique gifts and housewares." It's the place to find a unique and fun gift for that discriminating special someone. Rain is currently offering a special for Big Toe Studio's students: 15% off one item at the boutique. This offer will expire on December 23rd and applies to regular-priced items (sale items are excluded). Please mention Big Toe Studio for the discount. Rain is located at 214 Pine Street in Old Town (around the corner from the Silver Grill Café). Visit their website here.

Last month, we had a wonderful time at the 29th Annual Respite Care Holiday Ball. Our amazing students raised over $3,000 for a great cause. Thank you for making such an incredible difference!

Respite Care, Inc. is a nonprofit organization in Larimer County that provides short-term care for children with developmental disabilities, giving respite to parents and enhancing the quality of life for the entire family. Respite Care believes that a child with a disability is a child first and his or her challenges are secondary. Respite Care strives to create an interactive and safe environment that meets the physical and emotional needs of each individual child.

Please learn more about Respite care at their website.

Although this season is a season of joy, it can also be a time of great stress. Most likely, you will spend much of your time thinking about and caring for your loved ones. Try not to lose sight of your own needs, and remember to give yourself the gift of self care.

Self care provides innumerable benefits. It can help you manage the health-damaging effects of stress, increase your well-being, and help you to better take care of others. Though we usually provide you with a self care routine you can perform at home, the holiday season is a great time to allow others to pamper you. Try to find time to book a massage, get a manicure, facial or other spa treatment. You will feel better, find some time to breathe, and come away rejuvenated. 

Many people are lucky enough to get a good night's sleep, night after night, without much effort or concern. If you are one of these very fortunate folks, congratulations! As well-rested as you are, you probably notice at least one person in your life who doesn't share your good fortune when it comes to sleep. Many of us struggle with falling or staying asleep.

For some reason, we want to believe that sleep can and should be simple.

If you struggle with sleep, wishing for it to get better won't work.

If you are considering ways to improve your sleep, take some time to think about how you prepare yourself for bed. The most important question to ask at the end of the day is Am I doing all I can to prepare myself for a good night's sleep?

Are you spending your time in ways that relax and prepare your mind to "wind down" after a long, eventful, and perhaps stressful, day?

Or do you simply hope tonight will be the night you're so exhausted you'll simply collapse in your bed until morning?

Start pondering simple, realistic ways you can prepare yourself for a night of solid rest. Some things to consider:

• Do you feel prepared for what you need to do tomorrow? If not, what can you do to make yourself feel more prepared?
• Do your food and drink choices (especially at the end of the day) support sleep?
• Do you know what helps you relax? Can you engage in that activity prior to bedtime?
• Are you anxious about something? If so, can you banish that anxiety for the time being?
• Have you been physically active enough during the day to be tired? Do you need more activities in your day to be tired enough for sleep?
• Is your bedroom uncluttered, dark, and quiet?
• Are you going to sleep when you are sleepy? Is it possible you need an earlier or later bedtime?

After our new website is up and running, we'll explore each of these questions in greater detail; for now, simply take time to consider those factors which affect your quality of sleep.