December 2015: Favourite Things

Posted on Dec 18, 2015

So…”the holidays” are upon us. Are they a good time or bad time for you? Do you revel in Christmas spirit? Or find it too hectic and harried?

I am a bit of both. I love the Christmas season in general: the music, the decorations, the food, the good cheer. But I also find the Season overwhelming: too much to do and not enough time. So much preparation goes into a couple of days!

And then there is the pressure to “make” Christmas for everyone. Is the decor appealing? Have I selected the ‘right’ music? Is the food up to snuff? Have I forgotten anyone’s favourite things?

In all the flurry of activity, I have to take time to enjoy what I love about the holidays such as Christmas cookies and Christmas music. I can get so caught up in the planning and preparation that I miss out on my own favourite things.

As well, with having a chronic illness, I have to respect my limitations. I think that’s why so much effort goes into planning for me. I make lists, check them twice. I schedule in Christmas baking and cleaning and decorating to ensure there’s time for everything without pushing myself too hard. No sense putting in all that effort only to “crash” emotionally, mentally, and physically on Christmas Day!

So I must pace myself. Make sure I get enough sleep, eat well, keep walking the dog, and be mindful–living in the present moment, not only a week from now in my head. I need to “take in” Christmas, not just “make it” for others. Which also means being gracious–giving myself room to fail at making Christmas perfect for everyone. There is such a thing as a good enough Christmas.

What do you do to manage the holiday hullabaloo? Are you able to absorb some Christmas magic for yourself, or are you too busy spreading the magic to others?

Be sure to take time this holiday season to ‘just be’ and appreciate the sights, sounds, and smells that only come this time of year.

Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays!