"Tell me and I'll forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I'll understand."   ---Chinese proverb 

 This is thought of as 'the season of giving'. Well, when money is tight about the only thing we can afford to give is a good pat on the back.  Sooooooo......Let's rethink what this holiday season should really be about this year, and every year. Don't just give, give back. Get involved!

 Whether it's sitting down with your kids to send Christmas cards to the troops, volunteering at the animal shelter, or simply bringing a home cooked dinner over to your neighbor who just lost her job, when you take the time to extend a helping hand, you may start to understand. And, you'll make a difference in someone's world--- one card, one dog walk, or one meatloaf at a time.

This month's SSW highlights a local businesswoman who is getting involved in her community while changing her life, as well. Lynda Ferguson, a part owner of the newly renovated Inn at Scituate Harbor wants to "be a part of the neighborhood," she said. The three families who purchased the Inn this past summer are not just redecorating the digs, but they are also reaching out to other local businesses to create synergies that generate a new level of energy around town.

Also in this holiday issue we give you some new party ideas, like the 'Design with Wine' soiree by Daryce Morris, which turns redecorating into a fun get together.

 Also in this combined November/December issue, we offer up a great new AppeTeaser from chef Perrin, and a little cardigan advice from our fabulous fashionista, Kathleen Sullivan. And, local entrepreneurs Rebecca Pimentel and Danae Fuller introduce us to their new product-- the Babushka!

We'll be updating our We Love! section over the next few weeks with great ideas for the holidays, (so check back in now and again!). And, if you need a relaxing reading, Wink webzine has some new stuff from contributors Erin and Diane.  We also have some new blogs! Check out The Next JennaRation for some twenty-something insight. This time its a crushed crush.

 BTW, check out last December's issue for a great story on Womanade, and more. And, when you're done....go get involved!

 P.S.: If you have a story you'd like to share with South Shore Woman, let us know. We love to chick chat.

You can find our contact info in the "About Us" section.

 Cheers!

 Tracy and Steph

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