As we enter what will likely be a very different holiday season quarantined and at home, I’m really trying to manage my expectations and find the JOY. If I’m being honest, finding the joy has been hard, and some days it is downright impossible. Plans have been canceled, people are exhausted and the anxiety that fills our days can be overwhelming!
But back to JOY! We really do have so much to be grateful for, and if this year has taught us anything it is to slow down and be still. Love your people, find the joy, and try to laugh even if you feel like you want to cry.
JOY means different things to different people, but I think we can all agree that we need to find reasons to smile in 2020.
Reasons I am smiling……
- the magic of the season as seen through the eyes of my girls
- decorations went up early
- twinkle lights and cozy blankets
- extra time with the people I love
- a cleared calendar means I am free of any obligatory gatherings
- online shopping
- slippers and loungewear versus fancy dresses at holiday parties
- Added bonus is that I will not be walking in heels with snow on the ground this year 😉
- I have prioritized the traditions that mean the most to me, and let go of the ones that don’t bring me joy.
- I’m excited to send holiday cards and connect with family and friends virtually.
- I have more time to give, and giving doesn’t have to cost money. I plan to send cards to nursing home residents. Drop some surprise goodies on a neighbors porch, make gifts for my girlfriends and write letters to those I love.
- I’m going back to basics, and finding the joy in the simple things.
- Wrapping presents extra fancy, baking cookies that have no calories and watching all the holiday movies.
- Our Elf on the Shelf will be bringing extra JOY and mischief this month. I usually keep it simple, but this time I’m adding the “fun mom” stuff that usually feels like too much work.
- And last but certainly not least…..NO travel or hosting! I will miss my extended family like crazy, but my silver lining is a quiet holiday with “my people” and hosting is a ton of work, and laundry 😉
Happy Holidays, sweet mommas!
