It's my birthday today! Actually, not only that but it's my golden birthday! And honestly, it sucks. This time of year is all about family and the surrounding holidays and it is exhausting to try and squeeze in something a bit selfish like a birthday celebration. I've learned how to party in small ways though as I do like birthdays so here are a few tips if a special day of yours has this problem too.

1. Remind others
• Don't be embarrassed or secretive about it being your birthday. Getting older or singling yourself out as someone worthy of a few kind words is something totally acceptable. Be proud that today is your day and that it is one worth celebrating. Don't hold back and instead encourage others to celebrate with you; I find that usually they are glad that you shared with them so they can share it with you.
2. Pamper yourself
• Make yourself feel good by looking good. Get your hair or nails done, wear (and/or buy) a new shirt, or just take that extra long shower in the morning and shave your legs. Dressing up a little bit can make a regular work day feel that extra little bit special. No one can make you feel as special as you can for yourself!
3. Eat chocolate
• Yeah, chocolate is always a good idea. :-) The simple indulgences are sometimes the best ones and so if you don't want a huge birthday cake you have to eat yourself (and then feel guilty over), splurge on something tasty that you don't often do. Your birthday comes only once a year so take advantage of it!

I love Christmas. It's my favorite holiday. I can think of nothing better but time off with my family to eat good food, give and receive gifts, and all the pageantry of the Christmas season like wrapped presents, baking cookies, and putting up the tree. And with it getting dark so early, the decorations of Christmas lights is the only thing that keeps me going.

1. Nearly nothing
• We know you are either too lazy or scared to do much else than change a light bulb. I like to think that rather than being a Grinch these people are celebrating inside their homes and hearts. These are like introvert party goers. Even if they don't party like we do, they can still have a good time even if they don't show it.
2. Overly done
• I'm not sure why you like the blowup sleigh and countless moving reindeer and elves but there must be a reason you like to go above and beyond. Like posting too much on facebook, sharing with others is part of the activity. Their philosophy is if you're happy and you know it, tell the world!
3. Joint simplicity
• I love seeing a street with the outline of each house lit up. The whole neighborhood display shows everyone's unique house and light choices and it contributes to a bigger picture of what Christmas means to me. Keeping it simple and doing something special once a year is a beautiful way to silently tell those driving by that they've got it good.

I am often INsprired by the milestones of those around me and this week is a very special one - my dad is retiring! It is a very exciting milestone and turning point in your life when those you love retire and can leave the stresses of work behind and spend time doing what they love. I got to spend a wonderful Thanksgiving with my family and my dad's retirement is one of many reasons we are thankful this year. When thinking about the impact of life's events, there are many ways to celebrate!

1. Remembering back
• You've accomplished a lot in the last [too] many years in the workforce. It is impressive how many tough bosses, grand wins, difficult projects, and impressive achievements you've survived. Now you can use it as story telling for younger generations instead of as convincing evidence to your superiors. Whew! Sharing your past with those around you is a great way to celebrate the efforts you've put forth to get to where you are today.
2. Looking forward
• What is most likely on your mind is the future adventures you are going to have now that you are retired! You can travel during non-holiday times of the year. You can sleep in on weekdays. You can pick up that hobby you never had time for or read that book on your bucket list. So much time and so much fun to be had! Looking forward to the many new challenges and adventures can keep you hungry and keep life interesting regardless of your age.
3. Living in the moment
• With no agenda, deadlines, or rules, you can do all of those things you wanted to... or not. No one is going to make you and if you change your mind because you feel like it, you can do that too! Relax and take it one day at a time any way you wish. It is a great way to live life to the fullest and enjoy every hour without worrying about what comes next.