This year I did something very different for Christmas. I purchased my gifts, decorated my house, wrapped my presents, prepared my cards, and all other major Christmas tasks almost entirely before December 1st. I also saved money for Christmas starting in January of this year, so I wouldn’t have to worry about money in December. Why? Because I wanted to spend December enjoying the peace that the holiday is supposed to bring. I’m not bragging. Trust me. Typically, I am wrapping presents until 1:00am the night before Christmas, and there is at least one gift that still hasn’t come in, yet. A picture of the gift, it is. No, being ahead of schedule is not actually my super power.
But this year I wanted the holidays to be peaceful. I wanted to have time to enjoy the lights of the tree while I sipped my coffee. I wanted to thoroughly enjoy other’s Christmas cards coming in, without feeling like I needed to get mine sent out. I didn’t want to stress over money being tight in December, or having to put Christmas on a credit card and pay it off after the new year. I just wanted December to be stress free. I wanted to have my nights to watch Christmas movies and read Christmas books to my children. I wanted to enjoy their Christmas concerts and not be in a hurry to get something else done. I wanted to take the time to teach them the real reason for the holiday: Jesus’ birth and what that meant for us. I wanted to enjoy my Christmas décor for more than a couple weeks and make it worth the hassle of putting it all up.
So I did it. I put my money where my mouth was and made it happen. And it feels amazing. It allows me to really be present with myself and my family during my favorite time of year. Now, if this is not you this year, please know I’m not trying to make you feel guilty. Believe me when I tell you that I have been in your shoes. I just wanted to reflect on what a great experience I have had in these first 15 days of December. I hope you all find peace somewhere in your holiday, as well. Sending lots of love.
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