Soul Snacks are spontaneous time-outs: creative ways you can nurture your spirit in 15 minutes or less.

Here's a week's worth, specially designed to help you balance the busy-ness this holiday season.

Day One
What are your favorite holiday memories? Pose the question tonight at the dinner table. Use your family's answers to plan this year's celebration. You may be surprised at the special memories that have nothing to do with gifts or elaborate events.

Day Two
For fifteen minutes, write down things in your life that you are grateful for.

Day Three
Bundle up and head outside. Make snow angels or build a snow fort with your kids. When it's time to warm up, build a cozy fire and roast marshmallows in your
living room.

Day Four
What's your favorite homemade holiday treat? Write down the recipe, and share it with your friends. Encourage them to do the same.

Day Five
Challenge each member of your family to fill a box or bag full of items to give away. Decide as a family where to make a donation.

Day Six
Get out and enjoy the crisp winter air today, all by yourself. Listen to the crunch of snow underfoot. And treat yourself to a steaming mug of hot chocolate (with marshmallows) when you return.

Day Seven
What was the favorite book you read this year?
With whom would you most like to share its message?
Purchase a copy for them and drop it off...anonymously.

Taking just a bit of time each day to nurture yourself will ensure you enjoy every last fa-la-la during this magical season. Happy holidays!

Copyright 2005 Susie Michelle Cortright