There is a calmness that comes with not rushing...which translates to me
"don't put off what you can do today". As we find ourselves at the beginning of December, it's the perfect time to revisit our notebook of how we want our Holiday to look. What's important to you Dear Readers?
For me, my Holiday list includes, time with family and friends, Acts of Kindness, making snowflakes, mulled cider, peppermint lotion, neighborhood gatherings...
I tend to prefer doing things sooner than later, so I am not rushed... it leaves time for the unexpected that may delay me or create a sudden opportunity.
In order to make these things happen and enjoy them to the fullest potential of memory making moments they hold, I have to make an effort. In saying that let me explain..the effort comes when I need to organize thoughts and plans to help things run smoothly in my mind and with the follow through. I also need to realize my sons are no longer little and I no longer make all the schedules and decisions. (really working on that one... I know, I know "roots and wings...roots and wings") I need to keep things in perspective as to what really matters and it may be time, to let one or two traditions go. Pang, Ouch!
Visit your list Dear Readers, think about the special touches you can add to your Holiday prep, let go the parts that are unrealistic expectations, look for opportunities that can make a difference for you and others.
Be in the moment of what you are doing and make amazing Heartfelt Holiday memories of your own.
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| ~ Fair Trade Shopping ~ |
For Christmas this year I want family time decorating the trees, the smell of cloves, sing~a~longs, holiday hang out with family & friends, bestowing Random Acts of Kindness all around, lots of white twinkle lights, gift giving that doesn't make me clench my teeth (thank goodness the recipient I am referring to does not read my blog) and I want to be able to put my head on my pillow each night until January 1st, 2015, feeling happy and content with how my Heartfelt Holiday season turned out.
My notebook is started, my vision is written and I'm ready to kick things off. I will write out cards early this year, enjoying the individual notes I will have time to include. I will spend time with family & friends and it will be about making memories and not about cleaning and cooking before hand.
I will enjoy looking for that special gift because I will not be pressed for time.
In fact this Saturday I am attending a friend's Fair Trade Sale. I will purchase gifts
knowing they will benefit the Girl Effect Group. Proceeds last year were donated to organizations supporting girls and women in the area of education in Kenya, Guatemala and Sophia House here in Providence.
Join in the fun Dear Readers, as we start early, not over extend and find Peace!
I am taking on this holiday season with a Dream It....Do It! way of thinking. By starting now, defining how I want things to go......lots of laughter, tinsel, belly laughs, feel good moments and very little stress, I'm confident I can Do It!
Special Note: Please message me if you would like to stop by and shop at the Fair Trade Sale too!
Greetings Dear Readers! Today I continue to share with you my thoughts and ideas for creating Heartfelt Holidays.
We started with taking time to envision the Holiday Season we want to create. Be certain to put in place the steps to get there. Decide what is a priority and what can you let go. On the sentimental side I offer......
November is about Thanksgiving! We can express our gratitude in a variety of ways, knowing that it touches the lives of others and serves as a reminder to ourselves of how Blessed we are. Give these few a try.
Note of Thanks to a family member! What a pleasant surprise for them to find a note on their pillow, in their car or randomly text to them. Perhaps saying that you are "grateful for the smiles and energy they bring to the family" or "Thanks for bringing out the recycle bins and picking up the Bunny poop. It helps a lot".
Write a Thank You note to a former teacher, employer or friend, that has touched your Life at some point and made a difference for you. Perhaps a note to a teacher who has your child as a student now. Acknowledge and recognize what specifically they are doing to enhance your child's education.
STICKY NOTES! Leave them in the mail box for the mailman, and on your outgoing trash bins ~ although now that they are picked up remotely by a truck here, with the driver inside, it could be a bit trickier. Instead make a large sign that simply says "THANK YOU!" they'll get the message. If space allows you could say "Thanks for helping keep me clean".
Kudos to you! I have had great fun giving out individual Kudos snack bars with a note attached that says "Kudos to you for all that you do". I have given them to teachers, crossing guards, doctor's office staff. You name it, if I'm grateful of the actions of someone who helps me, I let them know.
The possibilities and joy it brings is priceless! And in keeping with recognizing what we are grateful for I must say:
Thank you Dear Readers for coming back for more! More Than Mom Thoughts was a venture I took three years ago this past October. I took the leap and jumped in without my floaties to give this whole "blogging world" a try. I am glad I did, and because of all of you I have realized the water is real nice. To you I share a heartfelt Thank You for all the support and encouragement and most of all for being on this journey with me. I am learning so much!!!
Gratefully Yours,
Maria
My very first blog post can be found by clicking Remembering to breath............
