Tis the season for holiday cheer and I sure am feeling grateful for all of you. Thank you for following along in this joy-filled, adventurous, learning-filled journey with me, one where even mishaps and challenges lead to joy.
Yesterday was another wonderful Over the River Makers mart, one of my favorite days as maker, because I get to talk with you in person, hear about something you bought last year that you are pulling out as you decorate for Christmas, and also see other vendors who have become friends of mine. It’s so cool to be in the presence of local talent (serious talent and passion!), to contribute to the local economy, and to build relationships in the community. I really love that about this small business life.
As we wait expectantly this holiday season, all aflutter with cheer and memory-making and light and whimsy, I pray we can also find space for stillness, pause, wonder, and calm. A few ways I make room for this, you might ask?
Mornings
I’ve know for years that being up before my kids sets me up SO MUCH BETTER for the day - to have even 15 minutes of quiet to journal by the Christmas Tree lights, stretch, or even do nothing but drink my coffee.
Plan
Yes, I know, I know, not everyone is a planner. If you’re spontaneous, that’s awesome and fun! For me, taking the questions out of what we are doing makes a difference. I keep a “DO” list on my phone, as well as a “CHRISTMAS” list that includes gifts to buy and for whom, and a menu plan for Christmas Eve and Day. When I’m planning to run errands, I can quickly glance at my list to see if there is one in the area I can cross off.
Expectations
There WILL be interruptions during the holiday season that will probably make us change our plans. This is not easy, but if we go into it with the perspective that there is grace and opportunity in these interruptions, we begin at a calmer place. For me, that could mean sick kids or insomnia or an unexpected fix in our home that requires us to rearrange life for a bit. Making intentional choices about what NOT to buy is also helpful - this year, no holiday decor or wrapping paper and ribbon - I’ve got plenty! Also focusing on experience gifts more and that fills me with anticipation for fun to come, as well!
Calm Spaces
Consider your spaces this as you pull out decorations. Fill a bag (or two!) as you decorate with items you no longer use or need to donate. Ask each child to donate one toy, one book, and one stuffed animal this season to those in need. If you need a year spending less time decorating and putting away, listen to your body and heart. Light a candle at night after the kids are in bed. Drink tea in the middle of the day while you read holiday books to your kiddos. Snuggle under a blanket with your honey and watch Elf (no phones allowed!) Pull out serving ware and donate anything you don’t like or use year to year. Make space for at least ONE evening a week without anywhere to go (not easy, but so helpful for an introvert like me!)