Carol, if you are like me, some of the holiday dread that begins to grow at this time of year actually comes from the shorter days, the lessening of sunlight. I always begin to feel a sense of relief when the days begin to get longer again, which, I guess is the whole point of having a major holiday around solstice - there is something very basic about being glad that the darkening time is over and the sun is on its way back.

There have been lots of good suggestions... one thing that got me through the winter in better cheer last year came accidentally because I had made a small pond and waterfall outside in the summer. When it was time to move the pond plants inside, I put them in a large tub of water with a bright light over it, and put the pump in the tub with the sound of splashing water going all day. It was like still having light and the waterfall, just like in warm weather.

Reading all your favorite books over again and starting a journal that is based just on your own poetry or song lyrics... maybe that could help you through.

Here are some links:

Christmas is Norway The lamb ribs and rice cream dinner, cookie recipe, decorations, stories, customs, and more.

Christmas in Sweden Glogg recipe and more

Alice