Enjoy the Holidays this Christmas Season

The holidays are a busy time. Many are working longer hours, shopping more, and finishing the semester at school – the list is long. We all need a break from the action to enjoy the holidays. This time of year offers us a chance to take part in the holiday magic with bright lights, special events, and festive festivals. The Michigan Festivals and Events Association is “Your source for pure Michigan fun!” Here are a few highlights for the holidays: Big, Bright Light Show The lights … [Read more...]

5 ways to celebrate the holidays, sans stress

For a lot of us, the holidays are an escape: a time to slow down and let the hum of work, life and everything in-between melt away. But for others, the very thing can be a source of stress in many ways. With T. Day upon us and the sleigh bells nearly ringing in Rochester, here are some helpful tips for reducing or altogether eliminating stress this holiday season. (Your health will thank you!) 1. Avoid being crunched for time: Plan ahead Stuff the turkey—or tofurkey; roast the sweet … [Read more...]

How to show more gratitude in your life

Salvation Army bells chime, canned produce piles glisten and a stronger sense of community swells. It’s a time of year when more of us tend to show how thankful we truly are for those in our lives and extend the compassion to our community and beyond. But being grateful and showing appreciation can be part of each day, not a practice saved for the holiday season. This week, two local experts share just how important it is for our health to maintain a level of gratitude. With a few … [Read more...]

Dear Crabby, How Many Holidays Should Employees Be Given?

Dear Crabby, My employer only gives me six paid holidays per year. Some of my friends work for the government though, and they get more than ten paid holidays off per year! What do you think would be a fair amount of time off per year? Sincerely Dan Dayoff Dear Mr. Dayoff, I can see how you would be envious of these friends of yours that get all this time off.  But if you say they work for the government, I guess I would ask if they ever truly work at all?  I know I am probably being … [Read more...]

Greens Market back for 65th year

The annual greens market of the Rochester Garden Club, a member of the Woman’s National Farm and Garden Association, is a Rochester tradition that dates back all the way to 1935. The 65th annual market will be held this year at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church on Friday, Dec. 2, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Admission is $2. Club members spend months preparing for the market, which includes fresh greens, permanent arrangements, dried herbs, gourmet food and other … [Read more...]