Christmas music has started on local stations. Catalogs are pouring into my mailbox, boasting free shipping and great gift ideas. Christmas trees are appearing in vacant lots. My Pinterest feed is going at warp speed as friends pin ideas for decorating, gift wrapping and, of course, decadent desserts.
Yes, the Holiday season is nearly upon us. This year, as with most years, I give myself a stern talking to: Do what you can, and don't stress what you can't. But where to draw the line?
My vision for this holiday season is one of contentment and gratitude, peace and light, family and friends and quiet warmth. Dashing about last minute sales and visiting Santa does not fit into that vision, for me.
I don't want over extending and burn out to be the themes of my season - not for me and not for my little ones. But with so many wonderful ideas for traditions, foods and fun - it can be tempting to go overboard. The trouble is, if we relentlessly pursue even half of what is out there, we could completely miss the mark.
The truth is, our little ones watch us and see what matters to us based on our priorities. Sometimes it is what we chose to do without that teaches our children what matters most. Seeing that we don't have to bake 50 different types of cookies, or spend weekends driving to every "Christmas" themed event in a 50 mile radius to have a happy and love-filled holiday can help children see that saying no is ok, too.
For me, it can be hard to say "no" to good things. Things that could be fun, could be happy, could make wonderful memories. But, just as eating an endless diet of candy can make one sick, too much of any good thing can spoil over time. Mamas typically bear the brunt of things this time of year - between thinking of gift ideas, decorating and baking, planning travel and participating in various Christmas time ministries. We need to be especially careful to guard against excess in all areas at this time of year.
This year, I make a spreadsheet to stay on track. What are we participating, and what are we allowing to pass on by? Seeing it out there, typed in black and white, helps me to see when there is really too much and helps me weigh out what should stay and what can be passed over. I hope that making more mindful choices will keep me more present in the spirit of the season, and keep us all in peaceful contentment as we welcome the Christ child and a brand new year.
How are you keeping excess at bay and keeping focused this season?
{It's Mindful Mothering Mondays, a day to take a deep breath and write out your mothering journey, whatever form it takes. A day to link up for encouragement from others who are in this same phase of life. A day of writing out the trials and triumphs and what you're learning right where you are, right now.
You might post recent struggles or thoughts. Maybe just a picture or a quote. Or maybe you'll just come here and read the links that others post. Whatever form your participation takes, this is a day for you.
We are all in this, together. Together, we can encourage and build one another up, be honest with our shortcomings and strengthened by community to keep fighting the good fight.
I chose Mondays because what Mama doesn't need a little encouragement on a Monday? As such, I'll have the link up ready to go on Sunday night for you to begin submitting your links.
I hope you'll meet with me each Monday! Here's what to do ~
Link up your post below. Remember to put the link to the exact post you want to link, and not just your blog url. Include in your post a link back here so others who want to join in can find us! And visit some other Mamas who have linked up.
Post the community graphic within your post, so people who are reading your Mindful Mothering post can come back here and find the rest of us!
Invite the writers of your favorite blogs to join in!
Share this meme with others on facebook and twitter. This community is for all moms, and the more that participate, the more we will be able to enjoy!!}
Grab the graphic here:
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I feel so behind already this season! With the baby still, well, being a baby, and the toddler/preschooler's birthday to plan before I can even think about Christmas, this time of year is so stressful. I've been concentrating my (nonexistent) spare minutes trying to find a good Advent plan to keep me centered.
ReplyDeleteI haven't done much at all. Trying to remain calm about it all!
Delete"Do what you can, and don't stress what you can't." I like your mantra. A lot.
ReplyDeleteWe've pared down, little by little, every year. And my, how that clears the way for a better, more Christ-focused season.
We continue to pare down as well. It's amazing - the kids don't notice and I feel so FREE!
DeleteI love Christmas because it is SO simple. I am fortunate to have had this modeled to me as a child. We didn't go "do" Christmas or buy stuff. I am so grateful I learned early that it wasn't a big deal--I do what I love and call it good.
ReplyDeleteLovely perspective, Jessica! Our Christmas is very centered on family time, for which I am so thankful!
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