🎄 Finding Peace and Joy in the Chaos of the Christmas Season🎄
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The holidays are meant to be the happiest time of the year, but for many, they can feel like the most stressful time of the year. Extra to-dos, packed schedules, and high expectations can leave us overwhelmed and far from the peace we hope to experience.
We decorate our homes with pillows and ornaments that say “Love,” “Joy,” and “Peace,” yet that is NOT what we are feeling. Why? Because in the crazy, we forget all self-care. We skimp on sleep, skip exercise, and don’t drink enough water—all while trying to “do it all.”
But what if this year could be different?
Crystal Paine from Money Saving Mom suggests a simple approach: list all the holiday traditions and activities you think need to happen, then let each child choose just one. Focus on those, and let the rest go.
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List all the holiday traditions and activities you think need to happen, then let each child choose just one. Focus on those, and let the rest go.
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At our house, we’ve made similar adjustments. When my kids were little, we put up a tiny tree on a table to make decorating manageable. I rarely bake Christmas cookies because I know I’ll just eat them all. And we don’t overdo gifts.
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Instead, we focus on simple traditions like:
- Decorating the tree and sharing stories about our favorite ornaments
- Driving around to see Christmas lights
- Watching Christmas movies
- Reading Christmas stories (and THE Christmas story)
- Listening to Christmas music
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These are the moments our kids remember—not the perfectly decorated house or an endless stack of gifts. What they really want is a peaceful, present mom who enjoys the season with them.
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What our kids want is a a peaceful, present mom who enjoys the season with them.
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When you feel stress creeping in, turn to Jesus. He’s your strength and peace. Time with Him isn’t just another thing to add to your list; it’s the thing that makes everything else better. He can calm your heart, help you prioritize, and multiply your time in ways you never imagined.
The peace, love, and joy we see on those Christmas decorations aren’t just words—they’re promises. Take a moment to stop, breathe, and ask Jesus to fill your heart. Let His love guide your season and remind you of what truly matters.
This year, may you embrace a holiday filled with peace, love, and joy—the kind that comes not from doing more but from being present in the moments that count.
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My Challenge for YOU:
As you prepare for this holiday season, ask yourself: What is one thing I can let go of to create more peace in my home?
Let it go, and replace it with something that brings true joy—whether it’s quiet time with Jesus, a relaxed evening with family, or simply resting.
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