CityView Magazine

editors HOLIDAY TIPS W here did 2010 go? Each year seems to pass faster than the last and this season, the busiest of the year, passes the fastest of all. There is so much activity from the start of the Christmas season right through the new year. However, there are a few things we can do to make life move a little slower, even during this hectic, hustle-bustle season. Home organizer Stephanie Boysen has some great suggestions for creating calm inside your home. Be sure to read about her home transformations on page 20. And speaking of organization, now is the time to start preparing your income tax return and the more organized you are, the easier the filing process will be. Tax accountants from Utley & Knowles share their tips on page 58. Some Fayetteville residents already know how to step out of the fast-paced rat race. They meet most days at the city’s breakfast spots and you can learn about their lively interactions on page 38. Finally, it wouldn’t be the holidays without parties and no one knows parties better than Cynthia Ross. Check out her gorgeous tabletop design on page 30. Whatever this season means for you and yours, I hope you are able to take just a few minutes to slow down and enjoy it. I know that’s what I plan to do.CV I 10 | Winter • 2010/2011 t’s the most wonderful time of year. There’ll be parties for hosting, marshmallows for toasting and loved ones are (hopefully) near …. just hearing Christmas music on the radio makes me giddy. I could do without the over commercialism that comes with Christmas, but the retailers would disagree. This time of year is chock-full of memories and family traditions, no matter how you opt to celebrate, whether your spouse is deployed or home. Your Christmas lights are up, you’ve wrestled with the tree stand, you are gathering cookie recipes and shopping for the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Peruse the holiday gift guide on page 52. Read about a local artist on page 26 and a sky goddess on page 60 – all have a true passion for their unique careers and are living out their dreams. From live nativity scenes, lighting the menorah and candlelight Christmas Eve services to making new resolutions for 2011, however you choose to celebrate try to remember to have compassion for the less fortunate and show some kindness to an elderly neighbor. Especially remember those who have lost a loved one over the past year. At the end of the day, we all have much to be thankful for – so spread the joy. It’s nice to receive, but it feels better to give.CV

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