Preparation & Anticipation

Sometimes it’s just as much about enjoying the journey as it is about the destination. This applies to Christmas in a very large way, because if you don’t take the time to enjoy the anticipation then you’re missing out on half the fun.

Do you sometimes feel as though your “to do list” only grows with time? Do you feel sometimes like you can’t wait until Christmas is over? Do you wish that you could stay organized and perhaps even get a little more time in the day? We’ve all shared those sentiments sometimes, but you have to take a step back and gain some perspective.

Stop and smell the roses, especially at this most special and blessed time of year! If you run through the season working only to accomplish items on your list and keep your head down the whole time, then you’re missing out on half the fun.

It’s important to figure out ways to enjoy the season and not wish it away. This is part of being a good host, but more importantly a way to embrace the season for all that it is. If you wish it away or let the stress or anxiety get the better of you, then you’re missing out on all the fun.

Here are some simple but effective ways to enjoy the anticipation and the Christmas season:

• Put your “to do list” aside and take a deep breath. If you get so consumed with your list that you don’t take time to smell the roses, then you’re doomed. Put it aside and give yourself some breathing room. The world will not end if you don’t get to make a certain type of cookie. The season will be much more enjoyable for everyone if you enjoy some time to reflect on the season.
  
  
• Take the guesswork out of the equation and rely on traditional cues. Rather than trying to think up a new gourmet feast every year, rely on traditional food. If you struggle for ways to entertain the guests each year, read Christmas poems or sing traditional songs. Don’t try to come up with something new every year, but rather depend on the tried and true ideas and resources to take some of the work out it for you.
  
  
• Delegate to others and take on less work. If you delegate some of the cooking or work to others in the family, this allows you far more time to enjoy the season. There’s nothing that says because you are the host you have to do it all yourself. Delegate a dish here or a decoration there and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
  
  
• Schedule some “me time”. Though this is the time for giving, it doesn’t mean you have to give your whole self to others. Give to yourself too and take time for some activity that helps to relax you. If you love to see decorations around town, then pencil that into your calendar. If some time away from the kitchen would do you good, then go for a walk. This can help you to reflect and come back to the process renewed and happy, ready to embrace the anticipation.
  
  
• Look to children for cues. We’ve all seen just how excited kids get when we talk about Christmas. It may do you some good to remember how that felt when you were a kid. The build up to Christmas and all the magic that it holds is important for all of us to remember and get back in touch with. If you need help in remembering how to do that, take a look at the children in your life and it will become evident how you can accomplish that.

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