Thanksgiving
Every year it seems that the holidays just sneak up on me and then they’re here. I always feel challenged to hold onto the holiday decor for Thanksgiving when I really want to put up all the Christamas decorations.
This holiday will be quite mild at my house. We just had all the kids here for Myles’s wedding so I knew it wasn’t going to be possible to have everyone back for the holidays. As a result, we will be gathering with some family and our neighbors and trying something a little different this year.
We’re going to Spatchcock a turkey and smoke it on the Traeger. Essentially this means that we’re cutting out the spine and flattening the Turkey out to smoke it more evenly. Wish us luck…as this will be an experiment.
Gratitude and Generosity
I’m always filled with gratitude for the family and friends who continue to bring joy and love into our lives. We don’t get to spend as much time with family as we used to since we moved out of state. Yet, somehow holidays feel less stressed, less pressured to be in multiple places, and they have become more about peaceful gatherings with great food and friends.
In an ideal world, I would be surrounded by all my kids during the holidays. Hearing their laughter fill my home is really the greatest blessing to me. Yet, I know that being far away has created a challenge and now I have to share my adult children with in-law families.
Wherever you find yourself this holiday season, I hope you can take a moment to reflect on all the beauty surrounding you. I wish for you to have time to embrace good conversations, play, laughter, and the small moments of joy. I desire that you find some relaxation amongst the busyness of preparing the holiday meal and the clean up.
I hope that you volunteer and get the opportunity to give to others this holiday season to share a bit of your blessings on those less fortunate. I believe that this brings more joy and happiness than anything else you can do this season.
Setting Boundaries
Setting boundaries during the holidays can help maintain your mental and emotional well-being, especially when social obligations can become overwhelming. Here are some tips for establishing and respecting boundaries during this season:
- Communicate Early: Let family and friends know your plans and limitations ahead of time. Clear communication allows everyone to understand your availability and preferences.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for yourself in the midst of holiday festivities. Whether it’s taking a break, engaging in a hobby, or practicing mindfulness, self-care is essential.
- Say No When Necessary: It’s okay to decline invitations to events or gatherings that feel too overwhelming or time-consuming. You can be polite while still prioritizing your well-being.
- Limit Time with Certain People: If certain interactions are stressful, plan to spend limited time with those individuals. Consider other areas or events that might be more enjoyable.
- Establish Holiday Traditions: Creating new traditions that align with your values and preferences can foster a sense of connection while still respecting your boundaries.
- Set Financial Boundaries: The holiday season can put pressure on spending. Set a budget for gifts and stick to it to avoid financial stress.
- Practice Active Listening: During gatherings, practice listening and not feel pressured to respond to every comment or question. It’s perfectly fine to share your perspective when comfortable.
- Involve Your Support System: Reach out to trusted friends or family for support. They can help reinforce your boundaries and provide encouragement.
- Be Kind to Yourself: Remember that it’s okay to have mixed feelings during the holidays. Allow yourself to feel whatever emotions arise, and don’t be too hard on yourself.
By setting boundaries, you can create a more enjoyable and fulfilling holiday experience, focusing on what truly matters to you.
I hope you have a very festive holiday filled with moments of gratitude and generosity all while maintaining the boundaries you set from being true to your values.