my picture: snow geese in flight over the farm
I did it.
Christmas is 3 days away and my “stress-free holiday” plan is working!
Being thankful, staying optimistic, clearing out the clutter in my life and making room for what’s most important has had a profound impact on my well-being this year.
The washing machine has been dying a slow death for months. It finally screeched to a halt last night. Freaked out? Not in the least. Not an issue because I’m done wrapping, baking, shopping etc. and I can easily handle picking out a new one on my lunch hour today.
Budget a problem? No, not really, and mostly because I didn’t host a huge party this year (accompanied by huge expense). I had blogged about my wish list here http://emjayandthem.wordpress.com/2010/12/11/my-wish-list/ and I just realized last night everything I was hoping for is coming to fruition.
* * * *
My wish is that anyone reading this will see the promise of what is Christmas.
When possible, forgive.
When not, give yourself permission to step away.
When you can help, do so.
Choose words carefully.
Refrain from criticism.
Pick up the phone and call an elderly relative.
Do something nice for someone else just because you can.
Mix it up.
Stop the schedule. Slow down.
Look around.
Celebrate
what
is.
So happy for you. I needed a little cheering up–this helped. Can’t wait for good things together in 2011.
Glad to have been helpful SFH
Yeah!!! Go you with a chilled-out Christmas of gratitude and peace! Rock on!
Thanks Cara. It’s feeling pretty darn magical, have to admit
I am happy to hear that your wishes have been fulfilled! Isn’t it great not stressing out over things?!?
Yes, it is great NOT stressing … whee!! Happy Holidays HL1981 …
eliminated even more stress by avoiding the Mall and ordering the new washer online… if I had tap shoes I’d be skippin about now
Good for you! This is a different Christmas for me, for a number of reasons, but like you, I am determined to focus on the important: my children, being together, being whole. Thanks for sharing!
Sounds perfect to me, Sheila. I really do think that – just like life – how we approach Christmas and all it can entail – sets the tone. I have more influence than I thought (within the fam) and so the ducks really do follow my lead. Thanks for stopping in .. MJ