Simplicity in the Holiday!

As you all know, I am a girl of simplicity. I don't like to make a big fuss about much... but when it's worth it I put my all into it!
With the Christmas holiday knocking on the door, and shopping, parties, entertaining, projects, end of year reports.... the list goes on and on; with such a busy schedule and who has time for dinner with the family or traditions! Well, I DO and so DO YOU!! I know so many of us are so busy, but join me as I refuse to let my schedule run my family time and this season! We will make time for family dinners, soaking in precious smiles, and sharing the wonderful season of Christ's Birthday!

It just takes a little planning and some simplicity to pull it all together.  This year I challenge you to not get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season and instead slow things down and bit and enjoy it for what it is, A TIME OF REMEMBRANCE AND CELEBRATION OF OUR LORD'S BIRTH!

Here are a few tips to make this Christmas one for the books!

1. Specify the traditions that define your family.
Just because the Johnson family down the street does it and has fun doesn't mean you have to! Ask yourself the meaning behind your traditions? What does you family get out of it? Don't get caught up in having to do everything  because at that point usually nothing gets done well. Find the few that are meaningful to you and that you and yours really love and let the rest go, I promise you won't regret it!

2. Please, it is ok to say , "NO!!"
Of course it is good to help with the class parties, the block parties, the Christmas toy drives, and the food pantry. But maybe this year try to find one service that you want to dedicate your time to, and be "all in". Find a way to include your entire family and make it a two fer... I mean what's better than combining family time and service!

3. Stay organized!
Get your calendar out and plan out the days that you will spend serving and carrying out traditions. Consider when will you be out of town and what kind of meals will you be providing during the month. Make a menu for the rest of the season, and make sure to add any extra baking projects. With a schedule and a menu... grocery shopping, family nights, and the day to day business of life will go smoothly, keeping you within budget, and stress free and in the Christmas Spirit!

To get you started, here are some links to help you get organized!

OrgJunkie.com - Basic organization, Menu Planning, recipe ideas, and baking projects. Make sure to check out the download Tab for printable checklists and menu plans

Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes

Check out my Recipe Index  for quick easy meals and party dishes that everyone will love!




If you are missing a piece of Christmas, or you would like to refocus your family, I recommend reading these two books

 Redeeming the Season by Kim Wier and Pam McCune, for great ways to refocus your family on the true meaning of Christmas!

 The Power of a Positive Mom by Karol Ladd, encouragement and advice on keeping God's vision for families and motherhood... A great section on making memories and how to pick and choose your family traditions!



Wishing you all a fantastic December! and a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS filled with family, friends, fun, and most of all Christ's love!