Holiday Hell

That’s right. I said it.  I tried for a better, nicer title, I really did. But this one has been stuck in my head for about 2 weeks. I don’t mean to be all Grinch-like about this time of year but I haven’t run into one woman that doesn’t feel this way.  We all keep giving each other that quick nod of the head when we are out and about saying things like “Are you ready?” Since when did Christmas start to feel like Armageddon?

Oh and it is only the beginning of December. We want to be full of joy and the giving spirit but I just want to give myself a time-out.

You know that saying about “Don’t sweat the small stuff?” The problem is when I find myself getting completely annoyed about exactly those small stuff things.

I feel we are all dealing with it in one of two ways…

Excessive Eating…

and/or drinking…

Which inevitably leads to us feeling all sorts of bad about ourselves and bitter towards others.  But remember, before you beat that other  mommy with a roll of wrapping paper who says she has sent out all of her Christmas cards  AND  finished all her shopping, keep in mind that something had to give. There is a good chance that poor woman has not showered and has no clean laundry. We all make compromises. Figure out what to let go of and forgive yourself for it already.  BE NICE TO YOURSELF. So much of all this pressure is put upon ourselves BY OURSELVES. Be good to yourself and take it easy.

AND VERY IMPORTANT…

So how to feel good, how to get back on the groovy train of holiday happiness?  Take control of the things you can’t compromise on. For me it is an organized closet. When my closet is disorganized it feels like my entire life is disorganized. So messy closet = messy brain for me. Starting my day with a clean closet sets the tone for a more clean day.

*Insider Tip –

Try storage cubbies. They help occupy that dead space underneath your hanging clothes. I took mine right out from our discarded toy section in the basement. They had all those cute fabric bins in them that I had high hopes for of containing my sons small cars by type (trucks, racing, small, large). Hahahaha – what was I thinking?

They do a much better job at organizing my pants. Skinny Jeans, colored jeans, Flare and bootcut, Black skinny pants, Leggings. These are my go tos to start my day, my uniform during this busy season.  Keeping them folded up high was annoying, I couldn’t tell what was what until I drug it down and unfolded it. And chances are I am in a rush and not getting them put back up high.  A very small thing to be annoyed at, I realize this. But for me it is the small stuff that drives me nuts. So if you make small changes than make you happy then go for it.

Wasted space…

Useful space…

*Insider Tip –

Also treat yourself to something. I know that sounds awful and some you will probably say that is against the Christmas spirit but I’m not talking about purchasing a car and putting a bow on it out in your own driveway for yourself and completely neglecting everyone else. I mean something little. A candle that makes you happy, a manicure, a sparkly piece of inexpensive jewelry.

In the meantime be nice and gothrough the holidays with a smile. I truly believe that happiness is contagious, annoying sometimes but usually contagious.

And hopefully when January comes you can sit back and relax. Okay not really but you can try.

Oh and if you are in the area Thursday is Ladies Shopping Day in Kennett Square – you can put my advice into action 😉 And come visit me!!