Plan to Plan

Well, it's about that time again! Time to change out those summer tank tops and bathing suits for some snugly sweaters and jackets. Time to dust off the "comfort food recipes." Time to look at that budget (with a magnifying glass) to gear up for Christmas shopping. Time to fill our calendars up with holiday gatherings. Okay, I'm tired already! I vow every year NOT to wear myself out and over commit to . . . well, . . . STUFF! This year I want a simple, Christ-centered Christmas. So, how do I accomplish this? These are my thoughts:

***Look for ways and opportunities to talk about the birth of Christ***

* Watch movies about the Nativity

* Have devotional time with your children 2-3 times a
week (maybe go through The Birth of Christ from the Gospels)

* Display Christ-centered decorations (a great idea for small
children is to have a nativity they can actually touch and move the pieces
to re-tell the story)



*** Begin planning ways to minimize the commercialism***

* Make presents by hand

* Shop online for gifts (keeps you out of the stores)

* Make your Christmas cards by hand

* This would be a great family project, in fact Jackson (my 10 y/o)
drew our cards last year, I treasure those far more than any I have
ever bought

* Turn the television off and the Christmas carols on (the carols are focused
on Christ, the TV is focused on the latest, greatest toy that the kids must
have)



*** Commit to NOT over-committing this season***

* Talk to your husband and decide how many "events" you will attend this
season. I think this is important, because without limiting your parties,
you will end up spending more time, energy, and money than you planned
on. It's always the last minute dessert or gift that gets you. All of these
"little" things add up.



*** Celebrate this season with other believers***

* The holidays aren't the same without "family"


So, get your notebook out, and start your planning. Plan to make this year the BEST holiday season ever.