Keeping It Simple

 

We are officially decorated for Christmas.  I'm not sure we've ever been completely done this early before.  Of course, that doesn't include the years where we've barely had any decorations up at all because we just didn't prioritize it with all of the busyness of life.  Thankfully, that is in the past.

I requested that we try to get everything done between Thanksgiving Day and the day after, knowing we have a few busy weeks ahead.  We don't put up a ton of decorations, mind you, but it all takes time.  Sure enough, we were done by Friday night with plenty of time to enjoy the process.  Don't you love reminiscing about the memories each decoration holds?  My grandmother passed away earlier this year and I thoroughly enjoyed thinking about her as I unwrapped items she made for me.  She and my grandfather were an important part of my life.  They helped raise me and gave me a safe space.  I am so grateful to have had them and their unconditional love.  Those decorations (and memories) will be treasured by me forever.

Saturday we were gone to a craft show (as vendors) from 7a.m until 4:30p.m. and then Sunday was our weekly farmers market.  Monday, we ran a Cyber Monday special on our website, which meant I spent most of the day packing orders.  Grateful for that.  I was able to get them all shipped by Wednesday.  The rest of this week has been spent packing and shipping orders, making lotion and deodorant, and packaging everything.

Jackson has been quite the helper these days. He still sleeps a lot, I mean he IS a cat after all, but he makes sure to check in with me (and steal my chair) throughout the day. I make a big fuss over him when he enters the room and he gets excited, meowing and prancing on in.

Inevitably he gets bored with supervising me and finds his own entertainment.  This week his favorite toy has been his Halloween mouse.  Next week it will be something else in his toy basket.  
 

It's hard to believe that December is upon us with all of its joy and magic. My goal is to keep things simple and stay present to the beauty of it all.  Slowing down and keeping it simple allow me to fully appreciate even the smallest of moments such as this:

A sweet little squirrel finding food right outside our home office window.  It's important to look up from what you're doing and take time to breathe.  So you don't miss silly moments like this!

Lastly, I know that some of you may be going through difficult times this holiday season.  I feel for you.  I know the holidays make challenging times even harder.  Please know that you are not alone.  Let people in, as difficult as that thought may be.  And if you know someone who may be struggling, continue to remind them that you are there for them.  It will mean more than you can ever imagine.

Wishing you a peaceful holiday season friends.