I don’t know about for you, but I know for me in the past, it has been the one of the most unhealthiest times of the year and I am not just talking about food.
November hits and everyone is saying, “Can you believe it’s November and the year is almost over?” Then it’s game on! What are the Thanksgiving plans? Are we going somewhere or are we having people over? When do I start my Christmas baking and Christmas shopping and what about Christmas cards and where did I store all the decorations?
SCREEEEECCHHHH….Can we put on the breaks here?
When DO we actually take time to be grateful, and when do we take time to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas? What was meant to be a time of gathering and celebrating, for most has become a stressful mess, with guilt and obligation as the cherry on top.
Is it possible to slow down and REALLY enjoy all that November and December have to offer? I believe it is!
How much of the hustle and bustle is out of fear? That sounds strange doesn’t it? To me too, but let’s look at it a different way. Maybe a fear of not getting it all done in time, fear of finances and how am I going to buy gifts with what I have, also, fear of inviting so and so to Thanksgiving dinner after what happened last year. The fear of not inviting them AND what will everyone say if I don’t? The fear of not meeting everyone’s expectations with the meal or the gifts, the fear of not getting invited myself? Wow, I didn’t realize that so much fear could be wrapped up in such a nice little package called “The Holiday Season”.
But GOD! He said he didn’t give us a spirit of fear, so where is it coming from? He did say, I gave you the Holy Spirit that is complete power, love and self-control, in 2 Timothy 1:7 (TPT) “For God will never give you the spirit of fear, but the Holy Spirit who gives you mighty power, love and self-control.”
I’m wondering if self-control should have come first, not that I am trying to re-write the Bible or anything. When we realize the power and love that we have with in us from the Holy Spirit, for those that are believers and followers of Christ, I believe that self-control would then flow naturally.
Can I say no to that Christmas party? Can I say no to going there for Thanksgiving? Can I say no to a second helping? Can I say?? I believe we can. This time of year was never meant to be what it has become for many.
So, how do I take care of my heart, mind, body and soul during this wonderful time of the year?
Here are some suggestions for me and you to help prioritize the important. How about we don’t over extend our time or budget, learn to say “no thank you” to the things that don’t have to happen and or be eaten, and find time to love yourself, bubble baths are one of my favorites, with a glass of wine I might add!
One thing that I have done for several years is I have had a cookie making day, inviting friends over and making a mass production of cookies and some candy. The past few years less and less friends have been able to come and more and more cookies are being left on my counter to eat and eat! So I told my husband that this year I WILL still make some cookies but it won’t look like years past. I did get an uhhhh sad face out of him but I think he will be fine, one day vs three of baking is going to be much easier on my timeline and my waistline!!
Now don’t get me wrong, am I going to try and do many of the things that I have mentioned, but after this blog, I am hoping to do it all from the power, love and self-control of the one who lives inside me.
I know this might sound a little out there, but I really do like to involve Holy Spirit in everything that I am doing. He has great ideas and is a fantastic shopper. With Him leading the way, I feel like this Holiday season can truly be one of joy, excitement, laughter, family, friends and most of all peace and goodwill to everyone!
God Bless you all during this most wonderful time of the year!
Just ME,
MaryEllen
Philippians 4:4 (TPT) “Be cheerful with joyous celebration in every season of life. Let your joy overflow!”
RECIPE: Best Ever Cranberry Sauce (Mom on TIme Out – Pinterest)
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1/2 cup water
12 oz cranberries
pinch of salt
1 cinnamon stick
one piece of orange peel (use a paring knife or a potato peeler)
Instructions: combine sugar, orange juice and water in a large saucepan over medium heat, Stir to combine. Add cranberries, salt, cinnamon stick and orange peel. Bring to a simmer over medium heat stirring frequently. Continue cooking for about 10 minutes, or until all or most of the cranberries have popped. I like to leave a handful of berries whole. Let cool for about 30 minutes. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
I do make this every Thanksgiving and we love it!
