Santa is making a list of who is naughty or nice. You and I have been making lists all month of the stuff that needs to be purchased/ decorated/ baked/ wrapped/ sent/ attended/ photographed…
Lists are great tools, but they can also weigh us down under a pile of never-ending chores.
Not this list.
I propose a different kind of list, one filled with simple activities that will help you shed a little stress and savor the good parts of the season. I’ve created a model checklist, but you can substitute whatever you love best and create your own list of happy moments. Have fun!
My Simple Enjoy-the-Season Christmas Checklist:
- Savor the aroma and taste of a favorite seasonal beverage.
- Take the scenic route home and enjoy the decorations.
- When you receive a holiday greeting, (snail mail or electronic) remember a favorite story about that person or family.
- Ditto with the cards or greetings you send.
- Enjoy some holiday aromatherapy. Cinnamon, gingerbread, Christmas pine… Ahhh!
- Turn down the lights and spend a few minutes enjoying your own hygge holiday glow by firelight, candlelight, or fairy lights.
- Eat some quality chocolate.
- Or cheese. Or fruitcake…
- Listen to your favorite Christmas tunes. Sing along if you are so inclined.
- Bonus if you stop working and give the music your full attention.
- Look through photos from Christmas Past. Enjoy the memories.
- Tell someone a childhood memory of a special Christmas.
- Ask someone to tell you one of their fond Christmas memories.
Bonus Idea:
Gather up all the loose change from the desk, dressers, car, washer, sofa, etc. Bag it up and drop in a donation bucket. (Not only are you getting rid of those pesky piles of pennies, you’re helping someone in the process.)
Wishing you a joyful Christmas filled with hugs, laughter, fun moments, and too many calories.
