My childhood Christmas' were simply put, magical. Family gatherings, winter activities, anticipation of gifts, believing in Santa Claus, constant treats being made and coming in, and of course I can't forget the decorations. All of it together made for a magical season. I didn't really know then how magical they were until I became an adult and creating the Christmas magic became part of my job. Admittedly, it took some time to get use to. I'm not too keen on Christmas being crazy busy and full of to dos so when it was all on me, I resisted and started begrudging the holidays--the same holidays I loved as a child.
That was not okay with me.
This year I decided to take a different approach summed up with one word--simplify. I cut out things that were not essential and found it left room for all the things we really wanted to do/see/experience. Don't get me wrong it was/is still busy. I mean, I think that's just part of this time of year, but the main difference was I embraced it. I knew going in what I was facing and appreciated it for what it was, knowing full well, that soon enough Christmas would be over and life would quickly go back to normal as it always does.
I think that's what I loved so much about Christmas as a kid--it was that one time during the year where life was anything but normal. It was festive, joyful, bright--it was magical.
**do you find the holidays to be stressful or do you embrace it and enjoy each moment?
xo
amy gretchen
7 comments:
That's pretty crazy how much your oldest daughter looks like you!
I used to find them very stressful! We were extremely involved at church (which is NOT a bad thing) but over time it because too much. We were able to take a little break when Thomas was born and that helped us. I think it's all about assessing what you REALLY want to do to make Christmas special for your family. And as a mama, it can feel like a lot of pressure to carry on Christmas traditions and make things magical. I think it's all about remembering that we do have some control! And that yes, part of the fun is that things go a little crazy.
Oh, Honey. You know how I feel about the holidays, so I won't go into it here. I will say, however, that this year has been the best one in a while. I think my friends might have had something to do with that. ;)
Merry, Merry!
Amy
How did you simplify? I feel the need to do the same, but can not figure out how to do it! Give ideas!
All I want to add is:
I. LOVE. THAT. WALLPAPER.
:)
I did the same thing, minimal decorating, just the tree and nativities, we donated to an orphanage in Ukraine as a neighborhood rather than doing neighbor gifts, David and I got each other one thing. The girls got too much, but when there are only 4 grandchildren, that's unavoidable...
I'm glad you enjoyed your season Amy!
Tasha
Thanks for the Christmas card-- beautiful pic!
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