My mom and I talked today and compared notes on our Christmas shopping lists, and the progress we have made. My dad piped in that my mom's list just keeps growing the more she shops. It often seems that way doesn't it. At this time of year I feel like all my lists just keep growing as I work on them. There is always one more person I could bring a gift to, one more party or event invite that we can try to squeeze in, one more cookie/candy/cake that I feel I should make this time of year.
My second suggestion for making Christmas extraordinary this year is to know when to call it enough - all of it! This weekend is the perfect time to sit down with a cup of coffee or cocoa and make a list of what you think still needs to be done for Christmas, and all events and outings. Then ask these three questions.
It is such a shame to hand this season over to empty busyness. As the moms and dads in the house we get to decide if this Christmas will be extraordinary, or if it will just be busy. Be brutal with your list. Say no to those invites that you are dreading. Give up the traditions that are feeling empty. Recognize when you have enough gifts purchased.
The culling of your list serves as important purpose - giving yourself your resources of time and money back. Then go spend that time with your kids ...
Play a board game, Watch a movie, Go sledding, Bake cookies, Make a bird feeder, Read a book together.
And consider spending that money you saved where it is actually needed..
Buy food for the food bank, buy a coat for the homeless man you pass every day on the way to work, buy a goat or chicken or water buffalo through Compassion and change a life.
It's easy to get sucked into the ever growing lists of Christmas time, but it is worth it to take the time to sit down and ask, "Is it enough already?"
