Intentionality

I changed the theme of my blog to reflect a Christmas feel. Snowflakes falling and a peaceful semblance to what can be the most chaotic season of the year.

I’m going to try to stay intentionally focused on remaining tranquil while battling the worldly messages telling me to make this season about standing in lines, wrapping and gift receipts. Last year, we celebrated my daughter’s college graduation with a 5-day get away the week prior to Christmas and although we had a great time, I think we’d all agree that the Christmas spirit was somehow lost in our touristy, tropical quest for good restaurants with even better drink deals. I’m thankful that this year keeps me home which truly is my refuge from the craziness.

In order to satisfy my longing to remain centered this month, there are a few things I need to change immediately. So, rather than wait for a New Years Resolution (highly overrated with a formidable failure rate), here is my short list of Intentionality in no particular order. I’m quite sure I’ll be adding to the list and invite you to let me know your ideas for being intentional.

Reach out with Christmas cards to the ones I love. Not the email kind~ the hand-written, I- really-do care-enough-to-take-five-minutes-out-for-you kind.
Actually make the cookies and the little do-it-yourself homemade gifts for my local friends.
Admire the Christmas tree at least once a day. It’s filled with “First Birthday” and “Your New Home” ornaments, hanging alongside noodle angels made by a 1st grade pair of hands. It’s our lives hanging on scented branches and I want to make sure to take it all in.
Be celebratory. This is the month our Lord and Savior was born. Yes, there is Santa and Elves on Shelves and Christmas dinner and presents and cards….but there was a birth that changed everything. I don’t want to overlook that in all of my busyness.
Accept family with all of their quirks, issues and past transgressions. Remain hopeful they will accept mine.
Play Christmas carols every day~ maybe not ALL day~ but for awhile. Hearing “Charlie Brown’s Christmas”, Harry Connick or Bing Crosby steers my heart in the holiday direction.
Watch “A Christmas Story”, “The Family Stone” and “Home Alone”. I’ve already watched one so I’m actually ahead of the game for once!
Go to The Nutcracker. I haven’t been in about 4 years and I love, love, love it.
Relax. Not necessarily the sit on the couch and stare at the tv kind of relax…more like relaxing my mind. Focusing on not being critical~ on myself OR on others.
Make a firm commitment of membership to my church by volunteering. It’s time to give back.
Foster new friendships.
Reach out to the healthy, older friendships.
Love where I am….in this place, at this age, with these people and things in my life.