How many Holiday Parties have you been to so far? Are you feeling the Christmas Spirit yet?
Don’t get me wrong, I obsessed for the perfect gifts last week, hand addressed all the Christmas cards 100 to be exact and decorated the two trees in the house. It was stressful and my mind was blank. At times I questioned myself, “Do I really like Christmas.? ” What gift is perfect for my Mom, my Dad, my Husband and, the list went on. Is my husband going to buy gifts for his parents or do I need a backup gift if he doesn’t? What if I get a gift and I don’t have anything in return, better make sure to have a few unnamed presents under the tree just in case. The Holidays have a way of stressing us out on top of our already busy schedules. This year, my beloved dog, Polar Bear passed away, so I’ve been emotional this season. Last week I cried, during Christmas movies, a song on the radio, when I couldn’t find a gift for someone, and when I hung an ornament of Polar Bear on the tree. There were times I wished we didn’t have to buy so many presents or send all the cards. Holidays can be stressful and time-consuming.
The highlight was my girlfriends inviting me to see the movie, Bad Mom’s 2 and I laughed so hard because I could relate to each Character’s agonizing moments about Christmas. Girlfriend time during the Holidays is super important. Laughing feels so freaking good. It is the release you need during this Season. Wine! It helps too like the Mommy pour at The Foundry movie theatre.
Christmas time should be so simple, it is about spending time with the ones we love. We put so much pressure on ourselves that it makes it hard to enjoy the moments that make us happy like a child’s smile light up when they get that toy they wanted, a Christmas Kiss under the mistletoe, a Bubbly toast with your friends and family, and giving a random gift to a stranger. The season is about being kind and giving to one another. This week I am receiving cards from friends and family I don’t often see and I love the photos. Christmas card giving seems like a dying art. Each year, we receive fewer cards, as people have stopped sending them. Although I was complaining about sending out so many cards, I realize how important receiving them is. I love seeing the photos and displaying them on my card holder. Hopefully, the Christmas card tradition never dies out since we post pictures on Facebook and Instagram. Snail mail from friends is the best mail in my PO Box! Handwritten cards and an actual phone call is more meaningful than an email these days. Thinking about the Holidays, I started to think about what I truly love this time of year.
This year focus on what you love about Christmas and write those things down. Have each family member write their list and share during Christmas dinner.
What I love about Christmas
1. The Holiday lights that twinkle and sparkle
2. Being Home in Colorado playing in the mountain snow
3. Watching sappy Christmas movies cuddling on the couch with my husband
4. Putting a smile on someone’s face when I give a gift
5. Helping a charity by giving a donation or gift to someone in need
6. My Mom’s oatmeal raisin cookies made with love
7. A White Elephant Gift Exchange
8. Enjoying a fine red wine at Christmas dinner with my family
9. Dressing up in Holiday attire for the Holiday parties
10. Spending quality time with my friends & family
I love that spirit of Christmas! Finally finished with the Christmas cards, finding the gifts for all on my list, decorating, I can breathe! Ready to enjoy all the Christmas parties and see friends that I love spending time with. Excited to give gifts that I put energy and thought thinking about what they would enjoy. Making people smile, having fun, and celebrating is what is important during this time of year. It is one of the most celebrated times of the year by people around the world. Cherish your top 10 list and focus on it each year. The things you love most in life are the things you need to make a priority for.
I wish you so much joy, smiles, fun and family time during this Holiday Season. Don’t stress or put too much pressure on yourself. Enjoy the moment, simplify, and focus on your top 10 list of things you love about Christmas! Don’t dread the season, enjoy the season! If all else fails, pop some bubbly, after all, you can’t be in a bad mood if a nice glass of bubbles is in your hand. Although my husband would disagree and say Whiskey. The point is to celebrate in the ways that make you the happiest. Cheers!
Happiest Holidays to you,
Bonnie
A selfie before an Ugly Sweater Party last night with friends. Finally ready to celebrate!