2 For this issue, we asked all of our group leaders about their group’s holiday plans and if they had any advice for handling holiday stress. Here are some of the responses we got: Holiday Plans “We gather for a dinner out during the holidays. At every meeting, we listen to one another's struggles, including holiday stress.” Jill, Upper Valley MS Support Group, Lebanon, NH “We will hold our third annual holiday luncheon. It creates an opportunity for all of us to get together and see everyone who can’t always make every meeting. It is also a nice time to be social and not only about MS. We do a small, round-robin style gift exchange, so you can steal gifts from each other - it is lots of fun!” Denise, S’myelin Faces Support Group, Souderton, PA “Upland and Temecula groups are having a beautiful holiday luncheon. Then, in Upland, we will have a white elephant gift exchange.” Denise, Temecula and Upland MS Support Groups, CA “We will have a Christmas Party at Whole Hog in Bentonville where we will provide barbecue and have a white elephant gift exchange. Members enjoy these outings and being there for each other.” Sandra, Northwest Arkansas MS Support Group “Since December's meeting will be our third ‘official’ meeting, we are just serving up some flourless chocolate cake. Our tip is learn to enjoy life and slowdown if need be. ‘A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.’” Ken, Meet and Share MS Support Group, Green Bay, WI “We will have a small, simple gathering at a restaurant a couple weeks before Christmas. The members voted against exchanging gifts. They are really a ‘no frills’ kind of group!” Paula, The Boulder MS Support Group, CO Holiday Stress Advice “Don’t push yourself, take time to enjoy each day! Sometimes it is very hard to remember that in all of the holiday hustle and bustle.” Denise, S’myelin Face Support Group, Souderton, PA “Learn relaxation techniques, exercise, eat well-balanced meals, get enough sleep, and don’t rely on alcohol or drugs to handle stress.” Denise, Temecula and Upland MS Support Groups, CA “Say ‘no’ if it feels too much. Have a potluck instead of doing everything yourself. Don't talk politics! Find common ground. Bring up fun family memories, vacations, etc. and go from there. Always keep cards or board games handy.” Paula, The Boulder MS Support Group, CO Q and A Holiday Edition