Thanksgiving ….probably my favorite holiday, not for the reason you might think….TURKEY!  No it’s my favorite day because for me it’s the kickoff event to a holiday season where you can look at the world with a renew sense of optimism.  There’s something to be said about a season that gives you the ability to be thankful for what you have…period. A holiday season that allows you can be content with what you have and wait for it…….here’s the bonus…….allows you share with others who might not be as fortunate.

So as we approach this 2009 Holiday Season I urge you to take a moment and be thankful for what you have and share with someone less fortunate.  It can be a simple as sharing your time for some who needs it. Share your meal with someone who might otherwise not have one. Share your old cloths with someone who has none.  Thank a soldier for protecting your freedom. Whatever you do remember to be thankful for what you do have, because to someone else it might be everything.

Happy Holiday from our family to yours…..

What if this holiday season you consider donating to your favorite charity? Instead of giving gifts to friends, family and co-workers I guarantee the person/charity that receives your donation really needs it…and more importantly will appreciate it. Over the next few weeks I will be gathering donation suggestions and posting them. If you have a suggestions please send them my way via Twitter, Email, LinkedIn or comment to the blog today! 

Avoid the Travel Rush Hour Usually people travel the day before and the day after the weekend holidays. SO you can avoid the rush and hassle that you will find at the airport and fly in off times. You might also find that you save a little extra cash!

Be Early Make sure that you arrive 2 hours early to give yourself time to get throught the lines and arrive safe and on time at your gate.

Check Connections When booking your flights make sure you leave enough time in your connection city to allow for late flight and connecting flight. 1 hour should be your minimum connection time.

Online Check In Save yourself some time and hassle by checking in online before you leave the house. You can check in up to 24 hours in advance and most airlines allow you to pay for package fees online. This will save you time and aggravation and you will be able to check in at the curb and go right to your gate.

Pack Snacks Carry snacks to hold you over in case you need to need a snack in flight, you can even pack a sack lunch to control what and when you eat. Remember you will not be able to bring liquids but you can purchase a drink past security.

Stay Hydrated It’s important to drink plenty of water during your travels. Drink at least 2 bottles of water per flight.

Plan for Comfort Bring your own travel pillow and or coat, you will save yourself from germs and be able to ensure your comfort.  

Be Prepared to Entertain Bring entertainment a good book, crossword puzzle, Sudoku anything to pass the time.

Travel early or late in the day Airports are least congested at times when normal human beings would rather be at home or even asleep. Delays are far less likely for morning flights, and airports usually unclog as the afternoon and evening peak passes