Has the Christmas hustle and bustle caught up with you yet- or are you ready and as cool as can be? I think that organisation is key, that’s for sure. But more than that, is to have a serene and organised state of mind.  To be at peace that “all is well”.

For years I’ve always regretted missing out on the true spirit and fun of Christmas due to over-fussing and detailing everything…it kinda took the whole joy out of the season. In fact, it came to be that right about November my anxiety level would go up. I stressed right up to Christmas Eve. And then, like every other year before that, by Christmas morning I felt a huge sense of relief and that’s when I started enjoying myself. I didn’t like this pattern. AT ALL.

Why did it have to be that way? I mean with so many Christmas parties, get-togethers and festivities around me-all fun stuff-so, why the anxiety? It all boiled down to preparations and the fear of forgetting something or just not getting it all done on time. And after all had passed I regretted the fact that I had missed out on so much due to all of the anxiety.

Well since then, I’ve changed a few things. My way of shopping has been reduced and narrowed down to Black Friday week. I’ve swallowed the pill that if I’m gonna be amongst a hectic crowd to shop, it may as well be way before Christmas- and done!

As far as food preparations go; My list is done a couple of weeks ahead and one week prior, the groceries get done. I start cooking a few side dishes 2 days before up until the very day. And my table is also set a few days before. Done. Ahhh! All this spread out organisation helps me breathe and gives me time to enjoy the Christmas season and what it’s really about.

Through better organisation, I’ve understood that Christmas is not about giving in the whole material kind of way. I’ve known this forever I think…but when have I really given it much thought? Giving means giving of oneself- and that my darlings means to offer your time and love to those you care about. Taking that extra time to sit and talk, to celebrate and yes, give thanks.

Had I forgotten the real reason why my family and I celebrate this time of year? It’s a special festivity that was given to me by my faith. Yes, that’s a very unfashionable thing to say these days- but it’s just the way it is. I didn’t write history… Christmas was given to us through the birth of Jesus. It’s because of Him and through Him that all this began. So why all the anxiety?

Because honestly, we slowly shut out our faith by giving it less and less time. It just all became about “stuff” and more “stuff”. Don’t get me wrong! I love the glitz and glamour that all the festivities bring. And I’ll be the first to try to set a top notch dinner table and dress up the house (and let’s not forget my wardrobe for this time of year darlings!). But, all that is but a side note to the real deal.

I’ve grown of the mindset and heart that I’m doing it in someone’s honour; while I help keep tradition alive. I’m preparing a big hearty feast fit for a King, for my family and I, to celebrate Christ’s birthday. After all that He’s given us- this is the least I can do! This has given it such a deeper meaning for me. With this comes the realisation of the importance to keep my family rooted to our faith. I’m pretty sure all this has to do with the fact that I am getting older- and that one day soon I hope to have grandchildren. And with that, I believe it is my duty to teach them about our faith and traditions. Otherwise, what is the point to Christmas?

If there is no deeper meaning to Christmas; just non-stop spending…who are we doing it for? Just to make the economy roll? I doubt this is the key to happiness and fulfilment- and the spirit of love and giving for that matter. (Just look at people’s faces and attitude next time you’re in a mall during the holiday season). No, I’ve decided that for my life, it’s gonna be different.

Organisation early on is key if you want to make time for volunteering, maybe going to a Christmas concert, or choir, and Church Services…certainly beneficial is some breathing time to pray and give thanks (call it meditating if you want!). Personally I’m really looking forward to visiting and receiving…And of course- precious time with the famiglia! It may not be the way for you- but for me, this is what I choose. I’m content and fulfilled with keeping my faith first especially during this time of year.

On that note my darlings, I pray you keep the faith and have yourself a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays- hoping yours are filled with much love, health and joy!

Oh! And of course, once you’ve made time for the real deep down important stuff, please do take the time to be ever so fashionable during this Merry time!

Blessings!

#confessionoftheday: so what if some of the laundry stays bunched up in the dryer for awhile…at least it’s out of sight.

A.M.D.G.