Surviving the Holidays

Tonight I went to a fireside called Surviving and Thriving the Holidays. Connie Sokol was the speaker. It was great.  Here are some of my favorite ideas from tonight:

*Make a plan*

 Decide what theme you want  your holiday experience. Do you want it to be peaceful, exciting, joyous, etc? Plan activities to bring out those emotions. Of course, there is no problem with picking a variety of activities, I think the point of this was that you don't need to do every holiday activity available. 

*In between big events, plan a simple one*

 Night at home playing games in PJ's by the Christmas tree.

*Ask why you are doing something*

A lot of us women get caught up in trying to impress people. Pinterest is no help here with all of their incredibly cute food ideas. People- A cake is a cake, no matter if it looks like Rudolph or just a normal cake. It's all going to end up the same. (unless, that's your thing, then do it for you.)

*Don't feel guilty for saying no to things you don't want to do*

I don't know that she specifically said this, but I felt it. Both my family and the in-laws do the name drawing thing. I hate it. My husband and I don't do it anymore. It's been 2 years and I feel guilty every time it comes up and I say we aren't participating. Now I don't, end of story.

*Take time to enjoy the holiday*

Spend time by your Christmas tree. Maybe everyone isn't in love with their Christmas tree like I am, but I could sit in the dark with the tree lights on for hours. I love the way my house feels with a tree in it. 

*Stop yelling*

This isn't really one that she said specifically either, but it happens. If you are in the situation where you are barely hanging on by a thread, just stop. If your kids are driving you nuts because you are trying to do something you don't really care about, just stop doing it and enjoy your kids. 

*Remember Christ*

He is the Reason for the Season. Be thankful and of good cheer. Help others as much as possible during this time, and be grateful for the things you are blessed with. 

I hope to have a wonderful Holiday seasons with the ones I love most. I wish the same for all. 

you can follow Connie's blog HERE