Then run to your nearest bookstore and find The Awe-Manac: A Daily Dose of Wonder, written and illustrated by Jill Badonsky (Running Press). This is a book for a good friend, a sister, a neighbor, a close relative or colleague--someone who will appreciate the whimsy, the fun, the inspiration, and the encouragement that jumps off every page.  

    For every day of the year, there are life tips, "doses of mirth," "toasts of the day," words of wisdom, and more.

    Best thing about a book like this is you can jump around. Read it for five minutes, enjoy, put it down, come back to it when you can. 

    Or read a group of entries for as long as you like. Or use it as a true almanac and read it just one day at a time. It's a resource to use at your discretion. 

    Random selections:

    "Here's to a bite of impossibly delicious chocolate cake." (January 27). (I'll take it.)(And then I'll pay for it...)

    "Creativity tip: Turn off the phone during your sacred creative time. Or if it's overdue, call someone who makes you feel creative or rejuvenates you when you talk to them or vice versa." (March 3). (Love it.)

    "Here's to imagining we can hear all the children in the world who are laughing in this very moment." (July 14).(Yes.)

    "In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." -- Albert Einstein (November 6).(Yes again.)

    Badonsky's cheerful, colorful illustrations enlighten every page. And check out the author's website, www.themuseisin.com, for more inspiration and life tips.

    Enjoy--and happy holidays to all!