Halloween is just behind us, Thanksgiving is looming, and it’s almost that time of the year again. Mariah Carey is back and everywhere I seem to go there is that dreaded first line of her hit song: “I don’t want a lot for Christmas”. Ugh, it has begun. I can practically hear those sleigh bells jingling and can almost taste the Guavaberry rum. Although it’s a time that most of us cheerfully anticipate and prepare for, Christmas time for the newly single might not be exactly a day to look forward to. I don’t know about you, but I dread the family gatherings, which will undoubtedly bring the awkward questions regarding my current marital status.

But I refuse to have a miserable Christmas just because I’m no longer part of a couple. Besides, the best part about Christmas is the presents anyway, right? And while Mariah may not want a lot for Christmas, thoughtful gifts under the tree with my name on it, seem like decent way to make up for the horrors of Christmas as a newly single person. Who’s with me? Believe me, I know it’s not easy, but trust me, I’ve been there, and I’ve come out the other side with a heart full of joy and a sack full of tips and tricks to make the season bright, regardless of your current Facebook status.