This time of the year can be so extremely busy and hectic, no matter how much you try to plan and prepare. I always feel as though I am five steps behind where I would like to be with everything from gift buying to holiday baking. One thing I learned a few years ago when I first began having fibro issues was pare things down to what was important. At that time, I was sure it was all important. But then I asked the kids what they enjoyed the most (and would miss the most if it disappeared). I have to be honest, I was shocked by their answers. The things they enjoyed the most were things I loved to do the most as well-- decorate cookies, the annual christmas eve treasure hunt and watching christmas movies together as a family. They didn't care if we made it to every holiday parade, went out to view all the lights or if I made tons of holiday goodies.
Something else I have learned in the past couple of years is to take some time for yourself. For me that means curling up in a chair with a good book listening to Christmas music. It might be something else completely for someone else. Yesterday I stood outside, breathing in some great fresh air and listened to the birds sing and the icy tree branches crash together in the wind. Just having a few minutes to appreciate nature and the fresh air revived me. I had been stuck indoors with sick kids all day long so those few minutes of peace and quiet helped. Take some time for yourself....you will find yourself surprisingly refreshed and ready to tackle the next holiday project!
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The fresh, crisp air this time of year is nice! Btw, I think that's so cool how you talked to your kids about the traditions. It seems like alot of parents would simply do things without even caring about what their children actually wanted. Open communication is great! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Becca!
DeleteI have to be honest-- I was shocked at what my kids loved the most and I am sooo happy that I asked! The things they liked the most were for the most part very easy to continue and were also things I loved. All the rest, while it is nice, just isn't necessary. It sure does make things less hectic around this time of the year.