Dear Universe,

The holidays are in full swing.  I went out the other day to try and tackle some holiday shopping and within an hour, the pushing crowds, bumper carts, sappy music and too-packed parking lots had taken a toll.

I needed a Santa-sized siesta.

But first I had one more stop—Barnes & Noble.  As I was walking near the in store Starbucks, this sign caught my eye.

“Holidays have you stressed?  It’s just desserts spelled backwards—so relax and enjoy the season by ordering a delicious Cheesecake Factory Cheesecake today!”

This may explain why Santa needs to eat cookies and milk at every home he stops at.  He’s simply easing his stress by eating sweets.

Now I am not saying that we should all eat cheesecake every time we are feeling overwhelmed during these next few weeks, but maybe the point is to just hit pause.

Because the one thing the sign made me do?  Well, it forced me to stop rushing and just stop.  It gave me a laugh and for those few seconds in the midst of all the madness, I felt a little better, a little calmer.

So the next time you are feeling overwhelmed, take a break.  Take a deep breath.  And sure—if it helps—treat yourself.  It doesn’t have to be cheesecake.  Maybe it’s a tea, a hot chocolate or a cookie.  Or maybe it’s just a moment to laugh it off.

Before you know it the holidays will be over, so stave off the stress and savor the sweetness of the season.

With Gratitude,

A