Dear friends,
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Hello, and happy December! If you're in the U.S., I hope your Thanksgiving was very happy. Now the holiday season is officially upon us!
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I remember well a Christmas years ago when we squeezed three complete family celebrations into a single day. (I bet some of you have done this, too!)
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I prepared food for our own Christmas morning, the mid-day meal with my extended family, and the evening dinner with my husbandβs extended family.
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Coolers, presents, and stocking stuffers were schlepped around town, on icy roads that added several white knuckle drives to the day.
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It was wonderful being with family, and I wouldnβt have missed any of it.
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But boy, was I tuckered out. Then my immune system protested, and I was sick for the next week! Has that ever happened to you?
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Iβve learned that I donβt do well with back-to-back festivities, trying to be everywhere, do everything, and squeeze in too much.
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Now, whenever possible, I build in some down time between holiday events.
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Putting some Xs on the calendar for quiet breaks instantly makes me feel more relaxed.
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Preserving some precious time for our family to slow down and enjoy the season gives us more energy for the parties and festivities.
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Here are some strategies if you, too, want to find ways to enjoy this December without getting worn out.
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5 Ways to Add Balance to Your Holidays
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β1. Schedule Time for Recharging
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X out some blocks of time on your calendar, and treat your downtime like an appointment. For instance:
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- A weekend afternoon to watch your favorite Christmas movie.
- An evening walk or drive to look at neighborhood holiday lights.
- An hour in the morning to read under a cozy blanket.
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β2. Create Small Moments of Joy
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You might try:
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- Lighting a candle that smells like pine or gingerbread.
- Listening to your favorite holiday playlist while making a meal.
- Taking an afternoon tea break by the Christmas tree.
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β3. Batch Your Holiday Tasks
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Focus on one thing per day, for instance:
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- Monday: wrapping gifts
- Wednesday: planning and shopping for the dinner menu
- Friday: figuring out stocking stuffers
4. Choose Easy Food
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Simplify with some stress-free options:
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- Crockpot meals (perfect for cozy winter evenings!)
- Simple charcuterie boards or breakfast boards
- Store-bought shortcuts for parties
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5. Plan One Thing That's Just for You
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Pick something that sparks joy for you, such as:
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- A holiday craft night with friends
- Visiting a festive holiday market
- Attending a Christmas movie or play
- Meeting a friend for a cozy lunch
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How About You?
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How do you create space and time to enjoy this special time of year?
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Drop me a note at elizagcross@gmail.com. I'd love to hear and share your stories.
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Here's to a little more balance during these beautiful December days,
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