Our Mommyhood

No, it’s not an oxymoron. Christmas and the holiday season can be more peaceful for you and your family. Disbelief is probably your first reaction to this suggestion but with a few great tips and some seasonal “wishful thinking,” you too can be calm for Christmas!

Organize the Mayhem

First things first, you need to get organized. Sitting down and knocking out your family holiday schedule is a must—and do this as soon as possible in the year.  Sure you won’t have all of the information, but you can still make a list based on the things that you’ve done before. Keep a separate holiday organizer that you can fill while you are brainstorming about gift and party ideas. When you’re out and about and inspiration hits you—take pictures of possible gifts with pricing information and you can catalog them later on your phone. Keep a visible family calendar in your kitchen, so everyone can keep tabs on upcoming events and activities without double booking.

Keep a Lid on Your Budget 

Money can be the number one stressful thing in the holiday season, so just nip it in the bud.  After you’re finished organizing your plans for the holidays, take a realistic look at your budget. Save money by planning ahead and sticking to your gift and party budget; start with your grocery budget.  Many stores are offering great deals during the holidays—some even give away food and cash! Check your paper for deals or you can go to GrocerySavingTips.com for even more great ideas.

If you can’t afford just what you want to give everyone, look for other items in the same category; for instance if a computer isn’t possible, buy them an e-reader; if clothing is too high for your budget, purchase cool accessories like scarves, closet organizers, etc.  A fun way for the kids to give their very own gifts is to set them up with ribbons and construction paper, pens and stickers and a hole puncher.  Let them create “books” or gift cards with ribbon ties, made up of poems and ways to volunteer their time, like “good for one week of dog walking,” and “good for one car wash,” etc.

Breathe In, Breathe Out

Most days during the season are notorious for being jammed pack with activities for all. It is important for you to keep your calm by taking some time out each day, if only for an hour, to reflect and breathe. As most of us don’t have the time or money for spa days there are things you can do to feel refreshed under the most stressful of times.

Create your own sanctuary at home by carving out a space for yourself to read or listen to music, whether it’s a corner of the yard or in the bathtub.  Keep your favorite scents around; aromatherapy can be a calming influence and candles are always a winner.  A great book to read is “Stopping,” by Dr. David Kundtz—it’s a lifesaver for turning everyday moments, such as stopping at a stoplight, into moments of meditation to help you rejuvenate.

Enjoy the Kids

There are great holiday activities that not only keep your costs down but also give you some valuable and hopefully peaceful time with the kids. Wrapping paper can be expensive so have your kids help out by creating custom artwork on rolls of craft paper. Involve them in holiday decorating by going on a nature hike outside to gather pinecones and twigs that you can use for home décor, gift accents and tree ornaments. Stringing popcorn or cranberries is still a fun way to spend time and an inexpensive way to decorate your tree. Shop together online instead of braving the lines at your local stores; this helps you keep to a budget as well.  Save local trips to the bakery or parks to enjoy an outing with your family; you’ll have time to talk and laugh, without getting caught up in the “I want this and that” crazies.

During the holidays it is especially important to take the time out for yourself—because if you are calm, others will follow.  Set the tone and the timing for your family, and it will help to create a great environment that lets you all enjoy the season.

For a great selection of decorations, wreaths, lights and more — author Rita Hathaway says to check out Santa’s Quarters! They also have a wide variety of fabulous, life-like artificial trees for ease and low maintenance — something you can appreciate in an otherwise hectic season.

Related Posts via Categories

• Top 10 Restaurants That Cater to Families
• 5 Apps to Help Save Your Family Money!
• How to Avoid Backseat Battles

Related Posts:

One Response to “I’m Dreaming of a Calm Christmas”