Dear Louise:
It's that holiday time of year already! (1) My gosh, where does the time go? So much has happened over the past year, and we're eager to bring you up to speed.
First, some good news: Todd found a furnished studio apartment on the Hudson River. (2) It's in an exclusive gated community called Sing Sing, and he shares it with his new roommate, Beelzebub. The lodgings come with free meals and the use of an exercise yard the guys share with 1,700 other like-minded gentlemen. Now, the sad news: Todd announced that he won't be joining us for the holidays this year. Don and I will keep a place for him in our hearts. The same goes for my sainted Aunt Mae, who passed away in February. She lived life to the fullest, always bustling about. I'll never forget her last words: "Of course we can make the light!"
12 SIMPLE RULES
(1) People are busy during the holidays. So just in case anyone has forgotten what time of year it is, remind them.
(2) Begin your letter on a positive note. It's tempting to dwell on the bad. But remember, 'tis the season to be jolly. Turn frowny news into smiley faces.
(3) Do share exciting news ...
(4)... but don't brag. Not everyone is as fortunate as you!
(5) Not sure what to discuss? Is there a new addition to the household, maybe a pet, a plant, some kicky new mailing labels?
(6) Teasing your spouse lets everyone know that you haven't followed through on your plans to leave him.
(7) Mention all your kids ...
This story is from the December 2023 - January 2024 edition of Reader's Digest US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 2023 - January 2024 edition of Reader's Digest US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
GOTCHA!
We asked for it: What's the best prank you ever pulled?
KITT THE COURAGEOUS K-9
Officer Bill Cushing needed a partner. His dog needed a purpose. Together, they rescued each other.
Let's Dance!
It's good for your body, soul and even your brain
DISASTER ON THE RIVER
Two canoeists struggle to keep themselves and their friendship-afloat
WHAT HAPPENS TO ALL THE STUFF WE RETURN
Think your rejects go back on the shelves? Think again.
Words to Live By
Poems offered me an anchor as I lost my son, so I shared them
LOST, FOUND, HOMEWARD BOUND
A collection of heart-thumping, tail-wagging, zoomies-inducing pet reunion tales
Paging Dr. AI
IF YOU'VE EVER Googled symptoms (and who hasn't?), you've probably scared yourself with a dire diagnosis, with no doctor there to vet the source and put the information in context. But we can't help ourselves. So can AI help?
The HEALTHY WELLNESS FROM THEHEALTHY.COM
A vaccine is finally on the way. In the meantime, here's how to protect yourself from ticks.
How to Speak Like a Midwesterner
FROM THE BOOK A GUIDE TO MIDWESTERN CONVERSATION