Can you believe that we’re on the runway to Christmas again?
Of course, the shops have been trying to get us excited and into “buying action” for a month or two now! But, it seems we need to face the reality that Christmas is almost here again.
I don’t know if it’s the same for you, but I find it’s too easy for me to get so caught up in “everything Christmas” that by the time Christmas Day arrives, it’s hard to get excited about anything! (I’m sounding more like the Grinch every year!!)
If my daughter had her way, our house would be covered in fairy lights from top to bottom with a Christmas tree in every room! She is a true connoisseur of this season.
Having said that, I really do love Christmas, but I know that I need to make choices about how I prepare for it, so that I can enjoy Christmas instead of being overwhelmed by all the hype around it.
Here are six things that I like to do to help get make my Christmas wonderful:
- I enjoy starting my Christmas shopping early, and do it bit by bit, so that I’m not rushing around in the last week trying to find lots of gifts.
- Find some time every few days to sit down and listen to your favourite Christmas music – not what’s playing on repeat in the shops!! What’s your favourite Christmas music? If you could stop right now and listen to anything, what would you choose? (I must confess, I’d put just about anything on to stop the tune of “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas” going around and around in my head!) Some Michael Buble music would go down well for me. Or even Relient K.
- Make something to give to others. It doesn’t have to be complicated – but make it fun for you to do. I’m a bit of a “crafty” person, so I enjoy getting a bit creative around this time of year. Last year, I found a fun Christmas sleigh made with chocolate bars and candy sticks all stuck together that I enjoyed making and giving to others in a small group I’m involved in. I’ve already started checking out Pinterest for ideas this year!
- Read the Christmas story to your family or just to yourself to remind yourself what this season is all about. Even if you’re don’t have a faith, it’s good to remember that this season is all about love and giving to others.
- By the time we get to Christmas Eve, I try to have most things ready. Our family has started a tradition where we go out for Chinese on Christmas Eve and then come home and watch Carols by Candlelight (and wrap any last-minute gifts). It’s almost a preparation to slow down a little and enjoy each other’s company. It’s so nice not to have to cook and clean up!
- Christmas Day is all about family and friends (especially those who don’t have anyone to spend the day with). Over the years we’ve had different ones come and spend part or all day with us. It’s been special to have them as part of our family.
What do you do to help yourself celebrate Christmas and not get overwhelmed with all the hype? I’d love to read your ideas in the comments.
Have a wonderful Christmas season!