Trying not to have it be like this...
image: Norman Rockwell, taken from http://memoriesoncloverlane.blogspot.com
With the holidays upon us, it's hard not to feel overwhelmed. For me, the biggest procrastinator, this is my struggle. I'm trying to do things earlier this year and to KEEP IT SIMPLE. As you know, I probably spend too much time reading other very inspiring blogs and not spending enough time on my own. But once in awhile I find something that really does inspire or motivate me and I have to share. (But still hoping to give credit where credit is due). I love the goals listed here from the gal at clover lane. She hit it on the nail for me, and I want to adopt the same goals this season as well. So here's what she shared:
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Here are my goals this coming Christmas season:
1. To remember IN SPITE OF WHAT EVERY MERCHANDISER BELIEVES, the Christmas season, FOR ME, starts on the first day of Advent. That day falls on Sunday, November 29.
2. To stay CENTERED. Not have my heart and mind pulled in every direction by super cute craft ideas, millions of delectable recipes, decorating photos that make me swoon. There is NO way I can try everything, have my house look like a magazine and stay focused on how I really want my heart to feel this Christmas. I promise I will take away ONE new recipe, (already have it...caramel and chocolate dipped pretzel sticks), one new craft idea (?), and one sweet little addition to my house (already have that too...a Jesse tree.) THAT'S IT! I will admire the rest...admire, no more.
3. By November 29, I will BE DONE with the gifts. Before you gasp in surprise, know that I have accomplished this goal for years. I have found, through trial and error, that if I really want to enjoy the TRUE MEANING of the Christmas season, I must not be standing in line, buying, listing, stressed, annoyed, snappy, away from my family at some dreadful store, buying, buying, buying! Barf! I use the month of November, avoid the crowds, shop in peace, and steady and sure, I'm done. December brings silent nights, peace and joy and peace and peace. (I so want that this year!)
4. To keep in mind Christmas pasts...not MY Christmas pasts, but Christmas's really past. When one gift or two was enough. When the season was more about the sweet stuff and less about Walmart. More about crackling fires and crackling record players and sweet anticipation and a family meal... and less about Lights at the Zoo and craft bonanzas, loads of gifts and fancy trees. I WANT the old-fashioned Christmas...not the new-fangled one.
5. To, like my mother did for us, concentrate 99% of my efforts on the real meaning behind the holiday. To REMIND them constantly what Christmas really is...that does not mean NO fun...I love the fun stuff, trust me. I think kids need to reminded constantly what we really are celebrating, just to build up a wall of fortitude against the constant barrage of materialisim....or they'll never get to know the sweet stuff!
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Isn't that just perfect! I shared it at a recent Enrichment meeting we had about beating the holiday stress and remembering the true meaning of Christmas. I love all her goals and will be trying real hard to keep it simple this year.
Now off to Michaels to get some craft projects for Maddie's upcoming birthday party!
(Oh Heidi, do remember this when you are browsing through the aisles and seeing all the inspiring Christmas decor and projects! Do you really need new wreaths and more garland???)
What are your goals this Christmas season?
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