Welcome, December!

Last year at this time, I started a little series about taking the stress out of this wonderful season.  I decided to bring that series back! ~~~~~

Part 1 of 4

It's the most wonderful time of the year. People smile more, shiny lights are all over the place, Christmas music plays everywhere, yummy food is constantly shared and an excitement fills the air. The decorated trees grace our homes and add that perfect touch of coziness. The Christmas movies fill the room with familiar sounds from Christmases past, anticipation of the favorite parts and quotes coming up... It won't be long before the Christmas programs begin, parties are planned, shopping lists are checked off and the hustle and bustle is in full force. Suddenly the days go by more quickly as the most wonderful day of the year approaches.

Soon you begin dreading the stress you feel taking over. The cheerful music you adored last week is getting on your nerves and you can only take so much more of the constant movies playing in your living room. Suddenly, the beautiful tree is looking more like clutter and the glow of the lights reminds you of the electric bill that is sure to be more the next month. The gifts under the tree remind you of how many gifts have not been bought with the money that you do not have. And when you look at your calendar, you realize that there is not one free night until Christmas Eve! Aaarrrrgggh!

Sound familiar? If it does, it's time to take a step back, simplify and remember what this season of joy is all about. The gifts, decorations, trees, movies, music, food and parties are all nice, but not the true meaning. When was the last time you gazed at the Nativity set displayed in your family room and felt the wonder and awe that God sent that precious baby just for you? Instead of our focus being on the things that are a part of the season, let's focus on the gift God gave us so long ago in His Son. As we place our focus on Him, our priorities change.

If the activities during this time of year eat at your joy and cause you stress, then I would encourage you to take a break from the 'normal' activities. How? These next few posts will be some ideas of how to simplify the season and magnify the reason for the season.
Originally posted December 2, 2010

Happy Thursday and tune in tomorrow for a giveaway!

Catherine