Chatting with son #1 yesterday, I could hear the stress in his voice. He’d held off shopping for gifts because he just now has the cash to do so; he called on his way out, looking for a few ideas for me and his Dad. I gave him some practical suggestions but tried to encourage him not to spend too much. I tried talking him through what I knew he could only learn on his own: that Christmas is not about that. But he didn’t hear me.
He had a deadline, a list to check off, and so much to get done before he had to be back to finish up the day and ready the little ones for bed and himself for his work week. And. And. And.
I remember those days. Those frantic, manic, Christmases. I remember working myself down to the nub when all I really wanted was one good sleep.
I remember.
And now, I am so grateful to be this much older with this much more experience.
I’ve cut way back this year; less gifts, less stress, less work. Less. Less. Less.
Today starts my last week of work for the year.
There’s a stack of books calling my name and I’ve set them aside for Christmas vacation.
It’s hard to come up with a wish list just for the sake of it.
What I really want… I have: some time off with pay, time for me and hubbs to slip out for the night, to share a laugh and a look and a promise of what’s to come. Time to sleep in, to cook, to read in the winter sun. Time to play with the kids & grands, and to visit friends and family.
Unscheduled time to goof off and to accomplish absolutely .. nothing.
I've always wanted to try yoga ...
I’m not hard to buy for; I just don’t need anything.
What’s on my wish list?
Nap? Yes please
My wish is that anyone reading this will see the promise of what is Christmas.
When possible, forgive. When not, give yourself the freedom that comes with letting go.
When you can help another, do it. You’ll get back more than you give anyways.
Take care of yourself. Walk. Stretch. Rest.
Take care of others. Choose words carefully; hold back criticism, be generous with praise.
... see the humour in everyday things
Have fun; be curious. Play.
... off to explore new things!
Mix it up. Stop the schedule. Slow down.
Look around. Try something new.
Celebrate what is.
and give thanks via knee-mail
*all images from Pinterest
