Take a Breather

I don’t care what religion you are, or what holiday you celebrate, there is just no way to escape the craziness that marks the weeks between Thanksgiving and Dec. 25. Nonstop media messages, urging us to spend more; racing to a million stores, looking for that perfect gift. Baking pies, cookies and candies to give out to loved ones, or to serve at holiday parties. Makes my feet ache just thinking about it.

That’s why I’m here to tell you about three ways to slow down and take a break from the insanity of the season. That’s right: take a minute now for yourself, and you’ll be in better shape to sprint to the finish line. Plus, they are all right here in town, so no travel is involved. Pretty sweet!

Enjoy the trees

The Family Trees exhibit at the Concord Museum is still going on, and if you haven’t been to see them yet, go now. First off, the museum is lovely and quiet, kind of like walking through someone’s elegant older home, with these lovely trees throughout. Each one is decorated to represent a different children’s storybook, making this appropriate and engaging for all ages. You only have until Jan. 1, so better get going. But take your time once you’re there: you’ll want to catch all the details on each tree.

Read a book

Even if you’re not a big reader, you should head over to one of our TWO libraries for some quiet reflection. Both are beautiful old buildings with gorgeous architectural details, and quiet nooks for reading, contemplation, or even discreet napping. Or bring your electronic device and use their free wireless to quietly surf the net, check Facebook, or write the great American novel. In the main library, check out the periodicals room, where you can peruse magazines they have on hand, if you haven’t brought your own reading material. Over at the Fowler, the armchairs at the bottom of the staircase are like your own private sitting room. And if you do want to read, well, you’ll be in the right place to find a book.

Afternoon tea

I have to tell you, there’s something so civilized about afternoon tea. Just the idea of stopping everything in the middle of the afternoon to sit and sip tea is enough to make me close my eyes and sigh happily. So it’s nice to know the Colonial Inn offers tea on Saturdays and Sundays from 3-5 p.m. Given that there are holidays the next two weekends, you may need to wait until January to take advantage of this, but by then the holidays will be behind us and you can really put your feet up. Just make sure to call first, to check availability.

Do you have something you would like to share? Contact me at stefanieac@comcast.net or Maureen at mcb23@comcast.net, and we will be happy to help you spread the good news.

And follow us on Twitter: Maureen is @cosmo1162, I’m @stefanie3131.