Letting Go

Something about pregnancy helps me to focus a little better on the things that are most important to me. I feel a little more relaxed than usual and able to let go of the little things that usually overwhelm my heart and mind. As the years pass, I'm finding it easier to release the things that just don't fit into our priorities as a family. When I start to slide down the slippery slope of involving myself in a myriad of plans and activities that I shouldn't (and I do!), it helps that my husband is willing to gently encourage me in another direction (I try to do the same for him ;)

Which leads me into my random thoughts for today.... getting ready the holidays. I get excited just thinking about it. This time of year awakens anticipation in my heart that Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner.

Two years ago, I started keeping a notebook for the holidays...an idea inspired by this lady. This wonderful tool has done more to keep me focused on the important stuff than anything else. Now, I have to say I do not follow her ideas and format exactly, but the principle of being prepared and PURPOSEFUL about the holidays struck a chord in my weary heart! I have been known to work myself into such a frenzy trying to get it all in there and would end up exhausted, overwhelmed, cranky with my loved ones and physically sick. There are so many things I want to do each year to make this time of year meaningful and memorable, but I am a human with limited energy and resources...I want to make them count for what's most important in the long run.

There are two things I especially love about this little notebook. One is the list called "traditions" which include subcategories: food, decor, activities and new traditions to try this year (also keeping in mind the things your family does NOT like to do). I also added a subcategory: things I want to try for next year. That last part just frees me y'all! ;) Without fail, about a week before Christmas, I will see ideas on a blog/magazine/tv and think, "oh I love that, I must try that!" And then I try to cram it in when things are gettin' crazy and it's just no fun...and not good for my marital relations, plain and simple! So this "try it next year" section is the spot where I just write it down. All of those wonderful last minute ideas now have a home...most importantly not on my to do list. :)

My second favorite part of this trusty notebook is "ingredients to buy" for those wonderful holiday recipes that we enjoy in November and December. She suggests buying everything you need for favorites way ahead of time. For example, when I was little, my mom used to make sugar cookies and we'd cut them out into shapes and decorate them to share or to save for Santa Claus. This is a tradition I wanted to continue with our children. So, I bought the ingredients ahead and then when we had a free afternoon, I had all of the supplies ready to go, without any stress or pressure-just plain fun. Little things like this are helping me to let go. Replacing the stress and unrealistic expectations I have with a little pre-planning and focus so that I can relax and enjoy making memories with my family and loved ones.

Please share: Do you have any ideas for simplifing life as we prepare for the holidays?