Greetings from the Florida Keys. We survived that rogue Hurricane Nicole at the same time St. Louis got its first dusting of snow. It is quite warm here, like August in St. Louis, so I am actually looking forward to coming home for the start of the holiday season. I’ve already started preparing because in my precisely ordered mind, it is never too early to start checking things off my list.

Let’s talk presents. I LOVE presents. There is nothing I don’t like about getting one, but I get fewer and fewer each year, and that’s my own fault. For years, I used to exchange gifts with a variety of people—friends and family—but as time has gone on, one of us suggested enough with the presents. I think this starts happening in your mid-40s so enjoy those gifts while you can!

I do think the holidays are the perfect time to thank the people in your life that provide you service throughout the year. Cash is king in most situations, including your trash hauler, recycle guy and hair stylist. Don’t go pawning off that bottle of red wine you got last year from the neighbors. We always give a gift card to our mail person because there is some rule about postal service employees taking cash. (I sure hope I didn’t make that up).

Teachers don’t need another No. 1 Teacher mug unless your child has made it, but they do appreciate gift cards. Don’t like to place a value on your gift? Then have your child, perhaps with your help, write a letter of appreciation to the teacher along with a gift bag of school supplies.

Shopping for family can be tough. We used to draw names but then decided enough—again, I think, in my mid-40s. Since I’m the youngest, don’t my siblings owe me? I lost in the present count! Buying for your parents is hard. My daughter and son always do a good job whether it is a gift certificate to a spa, personalized jewelry or framed family photos, and you can never screw up with a box of candy. Clothing is hard to get right. You may be tempted to shop in one of the “I’ve given up” stores for your mom, but the sight of that box could ruin her Christmas morning. Don’t be tempted by flowy tops and elastic waists. That’s mom’s choice, not yours.

This time of the year always makes me appreciate my family and friends more so I tend to eke out a few more “I love you’s” and hug a little longer, sometimes long enough the other person starts squirming. But for a woman who writes, I sometimes just can’t find the words I need to tell them how lucky I am to have them in my life. Each of us needs to do that. So, I will go first.

Thank you for reading my columns. I really enjoy writing them and hope they mostly make you smile but occasionally cause you to tear up. I have a good gig at Town&Style so please keep reading. Peace my Peeps.