by Terri
Several
years ago, I wrote this post about focusing on joy during the
holiday season. Writing that post really changed how I approach the holidays. I
just went back and reread that post to remind myself what I want to focus on
again this year -- the joy and beauty of it all.
Now that
Thanksgiving is behind us, we go forward into the Christmas season full speed
ahead and it’s hard not to get lost in all the hustle and bustle around us. When
we lose focus then the Christmas season has the potential to become this crazy
hectic want-to-pull-our-hair-out month where we breathe the sigh of relief that
it is January. That isn’t what I want this month to be and I don’t think it is
what you want either.
What has
helped me the most in the past few years is to focus on that “joy list” that I
talked about in my post. This means making a list of the things that bring me the
most joy and making sure I focus on those, letting other things take a back
seat. I may get everything done, I may not, but at least those things that
bring me the most joy are front and center and I make sure to give them
priority.
So here’s my
list of things that take priority over everything else – because they bring so
much joy. Our “Porter girls’ shopping day” with my daughter-in-law and
granddaughters is something on the top of my list.
Baking day
with a friend is something we always make sure to schedule. We each make 3-4
different kinds of cookies and trade them. It’s always so much fun to get my
baking done and spend time with her at the same time.
One of the
things I do to make time for myself away from all the hustle and bustle is to
work on my December Daily album a little each day. It seems crazy to take on
this project right in the middle of the most hectic time of year but it calms
me down and gives me the creative time I need and I love having all our
Christmas memories from each year in a basket for us to go through during the
holidays.
Another
thing I make sure to take time for is playing with my camera. There is so much
beauty this time of year that just HAS to be captured!
Here's a list I've made for myself this year. Maybe it will help you focus on what's important to you and what brings you joy:
- Take time to slow down and appreciate the little things. Keep your eyes open for moments of magic.
- Baking makes a mess. It also makes memories.
- Take some time out for yourself, even if it’s just a few moments a day. Have a cup of tea by the Christmas tree.
- Even if life isn’t perfect, there can still be beautiful and joyful moments.
- Know that there are going to be crowds and lines. Don’t be in a hurry. Just slow down and enjoy the holiday decorations and maybe even get to know that person in line with you. It will make the time go faster.
- Spending time is so much more important than spending money.
So what are
your “must dos” this holiday season? Whatever you choose to do, make sure it
brings you joy. Wishing you a merry and joy-filled December!