The fog rolling in over the far field.

God put it on my heart today to talk to you about something.

We’re heading into the busiest time of the year. Holiday decorating, shopping, baking, parties. It’s a whirlwind of activity and for many of us…it’s just overwhelming. We can’t all be like Martha Stewart. She works hard, I’m sure. But she has a staff to do the big stuff. So, I’m here to tell you…

You and I don’t have staff.

It’s okay to say no.

Let me say that another way…

IT. IS. OKAY. TO. SAY. NO!

You’re asked to bring five dozen cookies to the craft bazaar but you’re budget is feeling the pinch…just like that nerve in your back. But you hate to disappoint them.

It’s okay to say, “I’m sorry, I really can’t this year.”

You’re expected at yet another holiday event and you’ve been overloaded at work this week, but what will they think of you if you don’t at least make an appearance?

It’s okay to say, “I really wish I could make it, but I’m spread too thin this year. Thank you for the invitation, though! Let’s make it another time when things settle down.”

You’re grown kids want you to make their 37 favorite dishes this year for Christmas.

It’s ok to say, “I’d love to do that, but it’s a little much for me right now. Here are the 37 recipes. Why don’t you all go through the list, pick your top three, and come early. We’ll cook together. I’ll provide the wine!” This works for friends, too.

You’re neighbors have decorated to the nines and you hate for your house to look all dull and Scroogie compared to theirs. 

It’s okay to call your local high school and see if their Booster Club might be interested in earning a little money if the kids could come and decorate for you. The teen group at your church might be interested, too.

You’re grieving the loss of someone special and your friends want to get you out of the house and “get your mind off things.” Your friends mean well, and this really could be something fun for you to do. But if you aren’t feeling it…

It’s ok to say, “No, thank you. I’m just really not feeling it this year. I’d love to go to coffee after the holidays, though! Let’s do that.”

At any given time, it is ok to say no if you’re just over it. We had to go to town nearly every day this week. The last two days, I felt myself getting overstimulated and agitated. So, I politely told Mr. FixIt that I’m going to stay home till Monday morning knitting group and again till my Wednesday mammogram. The roofers are starting soon and I want to ENJOY the holidays. I can’t if I’m overwhelmed and snippy.

I know there’s someone out there that needs to hear this. Just chill a little. You’ll be much happier, as will everyone around you, if you take a little “me time” and get some rest. Eat healthy foods. Get plenty of sleep. Drink lots of water and less alcohol. Get a massage. Meditate. Go to yoga. Take a walk. Listen to soft music. Spend some time with God, or whoever you pray to or consider a Higher Power. I want to be inclusive here because self care isn’t just for Christians. 

Sending big hugs out to all of you. You’ve got this!

🎄

“And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.”

Mark 6:31 ESV

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We’re getting down to the cutoff for Christmas ordering. I’d say by the end of next week, if you’re looking for something from my shop, you should have your orders in. I’d like to thank all of you who have been so supportive and are shopping small! I’m most appreciative.

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