Monday, December 22, 2025

It’s Always Okay to Say No

Greetings all!

How is your mental battery this holiday season? Are you feeling festive? Excited? Or overcommitted, drained, and burnt out? Remember you can always say NO!

I love this CALM message: “It’s not your job to make it perfect over the holidays. You’re not Santa Claus.” 

Here are playful and lighthearted ways to say no:

  • “My heart says yes, but my body says no.”
  • “I want to say yes but my mental health says no.”
  • “I’m spoken for that night, but let’s catch up soon!”
  • “I can’t make it this time but I look forward to seeing you after the holidays”
  •  “I’m sorry I can’t make it, but I hope you have a wonderful time!”
  •  “Sorry — I already have plans” (self-care is a valid plan, by the way)

-> Remember: You don’t have to be the life and soul of the party. You are not even expected to be *at* the party.

-> Reflect: When have you said 'yes' recently when you wanted to say 'no'? What is something you want to say 'no' to but do not feel like you can? Say 'no' to that thing this week.

-> Reframe: I’m obligated to go → I can decide how I spend my time.

Honor how you are feeling and prioritize self-care and your own needs. Have a great week!

Monday, December 15, 2025

Christmas Tree Spritz

Greetings all! 

Just look how festive and wintery this 3-ingredient cocktail looks – herbal, bubbly, easy, and fun! 

Image and recipe from 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
  • Ice
  • 3 ounces chilled sparkling wine, such as Prosecco or Cava
  • 2 ounces green Chartreuse (or substitute with St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur)
  • 1 ounce chilled club soda or seltzer water, plus more as needed
  • 1 fresh rosemary sprig, dusted with powdered sugar if desired (optional)
  • Fresh or frozen cranberries, for garnish (optional) 

Instructions:

  • Rim the glass: Wet the rim of a wine glass with a damp paper towel, and invert the glass into a shallow dish of granulated sugar, turning to coat. 
  • Add the ingredients: Fill the glass halfway with ice, then add sparkling wine, green Chartreuse, and club soda. Stir gently to combine and garnish with rosemary and cranberries. 

Bon Appetit! Let me know how you like it!