The New Year is my favorite holiday. I love the reflection and finality of the year before, and the freshness of a chance to improve, grow and change. I take as much time as I can the week between Christmas and New Year to think about what I am letting go of, and what I truly want to bring into my life in the next year. I invite you to do the same. What you sow now, you will reap during the next year. Here are some simple ways to wrap up the year and get focused for the year ahead:

Look back through old day planners and calendars. For each month, take note of your big accomplishments and/or events in each of the following areas of your life: health, career, family, social, spiritual, financial, ............

We're in the final 15 days of 2011. Hard to believe the year is at an end. But as we're all bustling to get holiday celebrations underway, it's important to take some time out and reflect on what this past year has meant to you, and what you would like for your 2012.

If you're like most people these days, your holiday budget  is probably a little tighter this year. Don't let that stop you from fully enjoying the Spirit of the Season, Mamas! Here are a few tips to find easy, affordable ways to get your holiday groove on!

1. Fill the house with holiday music

2. Hot cocoa. Need I say more? Make it nice, with marshmallows. Or make it naughty and spike it. Drink it in a special holiday mug

3. Take a walk around your neighborhood and enjoy the lights and decorations

4. Pop popcorn and watch some holiday classics. Rent or do a swap with friends

5. Simmer some cinnamon sticks, orange slices and cloves to fill the house with holiday ...