Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Plan early and have a frenzy free December

Did you hear the one about the blond who heard that the majority of car accidents happen within two miles of her home? ..........She moved.

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Many people travel long distances over the holidays by car, train, and air, but most traveling is done locally and not just the few days around Christmas, but daily. Truly, this time of year is a little hazardous to your car fenders and you. With planning you can make the roads a safer and friendlier place during the holidays with these tips to help you from now until Christmas.

  • At the beginning of your day, start a list of the local stops you need to make. Route yourself so you travel the fewest miles or the least congested miles. Make plenty of lists, essential to avoid a quick run to the stores or malls. God bless you if you have to go to the malls after the 15th.
  • Be a friendly driver. If someone lets you merge into waiting traffic, wave a thank you. Allow those having a difficult time merging into traffic to go in front of you. Even this small gesture of kindness brings its own rewards.
  • Plan your meals from now until Christmas. Buy early. Bake and relax at home while others scurry about for last minute ingredients.
  • Play Christmas music when traveling. Cheeriness will invade your heart.
  • Have you put off mammograms, dentist visits, or yearly checkups? Often those offices are slow this time of year. Make an appointment now to take care of your preventive care.
  • Moms, the kiddos will be out of school soon. It's easier to push a grocery cart single-handed than with three children in tow. If you can afford to, shop early for those everyday needs.
  • Keep a bottle of water and a healthy snack on hand in your vehicle, to avoid fat-laden burgers and drive-thru lines. Or pack a brown bag lunch, and sit in your vehicle and have lunch. That down time just might relax you enough that a forgotten errand comes to mind and you save an extra local trip to stores.
Safe travel to you and yours. HONK IF YOU LOVE CHRISTMAS.