The tree and lights will go up today and the presents will start to appear under the tree. The list will be checked, more lists made and everything about this month will feel different than any other month of the year. Especially since we have two birthdays and two more babies on the way!
In light of a busy month, I pulled out a little book I created for myself a few years ago, to remind me to breathe and not get so caught up in the Christmas chaos that seems to show up around this time.
I thought you might like to hear some of these tips, as well.
Here goes...
🎄Remember WHO we are celebrating. Jesus is the focus and all the other stuff is just for fun.
🎄Picture what you want the season to look like and create that atmosphere as best as you can.
🎄Keep your meals simple this month. Save the big stuff for your family celebrations.
🎄Don't plan any important appointments this month (medical, financial, etc.).
🎄Plan some fun events you don't normally go out for, such as a party, concert, movie, just to set this month apart as special.
🎄Treat yourself to a new candle and/or a new Christmas book each year, as a tradition.
🎄Let go of "Walton's moments" as I call them. These are the picturesque expectations that never work the way they do on tv. They will leave you disappointed every time.
🎄Turn down invitations that you really don't want to show up for.
🎄Simplify your gift giving and expectations. This is a huge source of stress for young people (and anyone with a budget).
🎄Get your shopping done as early in the month as you can. This will free your mind (and stress level) so you can enjoy the days leading up to Christmas.
🎄Rock the days when you have the energy. Rest on the days you don't.
🎄Move unnecessary projects on your list to the new year. December is not the month to start something new!
🎄Delete, unsubscribe, block all unwanted, unsolicited ads, emails, influencers, etc. People will want your money this month! Protect yourself from temptation and money grabs.
🎄Create your own traditions - meals, times, festivities, etc. You don't have to carry on any traditions that you're not thrilled about, just because someone else deems it important. Be yourself! Create meaningful moments for you and your family.
🎄Quit overthinking everything.
🎄Take time to walk outside. It refreshes your mind and your body.
🎄Spend some time each day relaxing with a good book, doing something creative or just sitting in a comfy chair with something hot to drink.
🎄Celebrate December birthdays like they aren't in the busiest month of the year! Give the birthday people the recognition they deserve.
These are not earth-shattering ideas, I know, but they are good reminders that December should feel different.
Christmas comes around once a year and it's supposed to be special! We are celebrating the birth of our savior. Throw the parties, give the gifts, eat good food and celebrate Jesus, because he is worth celebrating.
Here's to a wonderful Christmas month!
Until Next Time...
Blessings!
Thanks for the reminders, wishing you a beautiful Saturday my friend.
ReplyDeleteI am grateful that my family (over 40 in #) decided 50 years ago that we would draw names for Christmas. Each adult gets one adult (and now it's 3 generations). We get our name early in the year and there is no stress about it.
ReplyDeleteAnd hubster's family, decided NO gifting about 15y back. Many could/can afford much more than dollar store and people were honestly getting junk. It's more peaceful not to do it.
Indeed Jesus is the reason for the Season. My feelings of Blessed are year-round.
I totally enjoyed your list and already do a number of them. Have a wonderful end of November and start of December.
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ReplyDeleteRegarding your list of advice for this month, that’s a good idea. I especially resonate with not scheduling medical/dental appts this month (if possible). At my last dental cleaning, they started to give me an appt in late December and I decided to put it off until January for this very reason.
ReplyDeleteI am getting much better with finishing my shopping sooner rather than later, and I’m doing all of it on-line this year. It’s working out well.
As for just sitting in a comfy chair, this morning after cleaning house, I sat in a comfortable rocker and watched the wind blow a jet contrail in the sky for several minutes. Very relaxing.
Thanks for these suggestions!
Great tips.
ReplyDeleteI am a huge list maker - all the time.
I have simplified gifting and decorations.
I have already turned down one event - too much bad energy in some folks
I spend some time outdoors every single day. Fresh air is much needed!
Such a great list....I made a copy of this list to hang on my fridge. All too often we get caught up in the hustle and bustle and before we know it, Christmas is over....without us having time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Thank you for this list and for sharing...
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