The Weather Outside is not so Frightening but the Hoards of Holiday Shoppers can be

The weather outside is not so frightening but the hoards of holiday shoppers can be and they’re out there, in spite of Amazon Prime.  In the City Beautiful, there are more than a few ways to escape the madness, enjoy the blessings of the season and reduce the levels of holiday stress.

Downtown Orlando, surrounding neighborhoods and nearby towns have ‘decked their halls’.  Take a date, family or friends on a driving tour of the city between 7 and 9 pm and watch them delight in the holiday decorations and colorful sights.  If you find yourself smiling too widely, pull over and treat yourselves to holiday specialty drinks at the nearest Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts where there’s no alcohol involved.  If you’re a movie buff, spending a couple of hours in front of a big screen, especially one that’s located near a food court, might also be a good idea.  The movie, Cats with Idris Elba, Jennifer Hudson, and Jason Derulo is coming to a theatre near you this Christmas.

If you’re in need of a pitstop with higher octane, please drink responsibly and consider someplace close to the place you call home.   Cheers, where everybody knows your name, will help to ensure your safe return to all the baking and wrapping and caroling and feasting left to do.

Once your days are cleared of the usual office parties and political drama, a wing stop might be in order. Check out some of the local soul food restaurants like Oley’s in Orlando and Shantell’s in Sanford when you’re ready to refuel, refresh, find comfort and spread joy.  Be an angel to someone in need and add one, in their honor, to your tree.  Be mindful of those who may not know grace or favor and take time to revel in this wondrous season.   If you’re celebrating Hanukah or preparing for Kwanza, may your days be merry and bright and may all your Christmases be stress-free.

About the author

Sharon Fletcher Jones is a true Libra, an action-ist, and a budget fashionista.  The Portsmouth, Virginia native is also an employment specialist with Goodwill Industries, a life coach and an associate editor at ONYX Magazine. Stacey’s mom (literally) has got it going on.  Fletcher Jones’ personal mantra is “It’s the dash that counts.”