It's okay to NOT...

I feel compelled to say, it's okay to NOT. Especially this time of year. 

The older I get, the more I realize how unbelievably stressful this time of year can be on people. I talked to a friend the other day that said when her kids were little they spent the holidays going from one family to the other and didn't really enjoy their time because they were hustling from one place to the next to make sure they saw everyone. Is this your family? It's okay to NOT. Are you tired of not gaining any peace from this season?  Just make a decision to stay home with YOUR family. Make plans to visit at different times throughout the year. Meet up weeks ahead of Christmas or have Christmas in July. 

Are you wondering if you need to buy small gifts for everyone at your office or school? All the kids in a huge family? Your childrens' teachers? It's okay to NOT. Every year I receive lots of little gifts from students, other teachers, friends. I do not reciprocate. It's hard enough to plan and prepare for Christmas for my own family. My love language is not giving and receiving of gifts. I decided years ago that it was pointless to drain my energy and finances. I'd much rather you send me a text wishing me a Merry Christmas or give me a call during those weird days between Christmas and New Years so we can catch up. 

Are you so sick of your Elf on the Shelf? It's okay to NOT. The elf was fun for me for one year. One. After that he became a pain in the ass. We still have an elf, but he doesn't do elaborate pranks or really much of anything special. That little sucker just flies around sitting in different places. He occasionally goes all out and plays with toys. It's okay if your kids don't have an elf. 

If your primary love language is giving and receiving of gifts, I understand that it's your time to shine. Consider spending your extra money on an Angel Tree child and buying the name brands instead of knock offs. Reach out to your local DHS and sponsor a foster child. There are lots of ways we can make this time of year meaningful as well as peaceful. 

Extend some grace to yourself and others. We're all doing our best. Remember that to all the things bringing you stress this holiday season, it's okay to NOT. 

Lots of love. ❤️