I am writing straight from the heart today.
I sure hope you don't mind.
My usual style is artful, creative, and edited. I love the process of combining thoughts and ideas, and adding fabulous photos. Today I offer something different.
Something quite simple.
Christmas thoughts. Family ideas. My love for both.
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This is the time of year that I am very drawn to family and home. My heart aches to look deeply in the eyes of my children. I want them to believe they are known to me.
That they are important.
That they are loved.
This is a very special time of year for me with my husband also. We celebrate our wedding anniversary and Christmas in the same month.
Oh, how my heart overflows!
(Source)
So, knowing this is the way my heart is drawn, then my thoughts flow something like this...................
The busy, chaotic, and intense atmosphere of this holiday season is very unattractive to me. Impressing others with the best gifts, or by having the most popular Christmas party is unimportant.
Spending a ton of money, wasting a lot of time, or losing my joy is not an option.
Instead I choose home. I choose family.
I choose........
Homemade meals.
Hot chocolate for dessert.
Gingerbread houses.
Advent calenders.
Candles.
Music playing softly.
Extra blankets.
Taking pictures.
Laughing.
Listening.
Eggnog.
His favorite pie.
Low lights in the evening.
Mistletoe............. always mistletoe.
I choose to be present in our home.
During this very busy time of year I choose to give my family the best gift I could possibly give them............... the gift of myself.
I try to stay healthy and well rested, so that my energy is high (and emotions stay balanced, let's be honest).
I shop online, so that my time is saved (as well as my nerves).
I plan each purchase carefully. We use coupons, and shop wisely. We stick to the budget.
I work diligently on my business during the day. I am so thankful for my clients, and the opportunity they give me to create special pieces for them. Then, I close shop at a set time.
Time management is key.
I am very very far from perfect. I do not have it all together. I fail at times, and most of my 'to do' list is still there at the end of the day........ and the next day.
Still, I know it is worth it.
Loving and Living straight from the heart is worth it!
A woman knows her husband. A mama knows her children. She knows when their eyes light up, and when she has touched a heart. She knows when she has impressed them with her love........ a deep impressions on the soul.
That is exactly where I want to live........ at Christmas and always.
Please tell me. What are some of your holiday disciplines? How do you stay focussed on family? Tell me some of your favorites, please :o).
Loving and Living Life................. Amanda
