The Twelve Days 'Til Christmas

Two days back, the FedEx delivery lady came to my door with a muddy hand, a grimace on her face and my package (which turned out to be the MOST uncomfortable pair of heels ever and were immediately boxed back up). I asked if she was OK, and she told me she'd fallen on the curb outside: "Could I use some paper towels?" I asked her to come in and use my bathroom to clean up and then I offered her cookies I'd just made. She took two and headed back out.

I told Tom that story when he asked about my day, and he said, "Em, I don't know many people who would do that." I was stunned; that simple interaction made my day better, and maybe it made the FedEx gal's day a bit better too.

In the holiday spirit,  I give you my version of the traditional carol, The Twelve Days of Christmas. There is zero pressure or snootiness here so please read with the utter sincerity in which I wrote it!

Sing along as you would to the tune the real thing! If you don't do Christmas, the message still stands!

On the first day til Christmas What you can do is this: Slip some coins in someone's nearly-expired meter.

On the second day til Christmas, What you can do is this: Compliment someone just because.

On the third day til Christmas, What you can do is this: Write a thank you note that's overdue.

On the fourth day til Christmas, What you can do is this: Tip an extra 10+% if service's good.

On the fifth day til Christmas, What you can do is this: Tell a friend how much you appreciate her. (or him!)

On the sixth day til Christmas, What you can do is this: Make some holiday cookies and pass them out.

On the seventh day til Christmas, What you can do is this: Donate to a cause in which you believe.

On the eighth day til Christmas, What you can do is this: Tell your family how much you love them so.

On the ninth day til Christmas, What you can do is this: Volunteer to help someone in need.

On the tenth day til Christmas, What you can do is this: Let someone who looks hurried go first.

On the eleventh day til Christmas, What you can do is this: Surprise your kids* with hot chocolate and a treat.

On the twelfth day that's Christmas, What you can do is this: Give big thanks for all that you have.

*If you don't have children, treat yourself or a friend to some hot chocolate and a treat. :)