There are nails to be clipped, hair to be brushed, beds to be made. There are presents to wrap, trees to be decorated, Elf’s to move to and fro. The laundry needs folded, their teeth need brushed, and the house needs vacuumed. Don’t forget to feed the dog, unplug the Christmas lights, and take the meat out to defrost for dinner.

But there are also children to be snuggled, meals to be enjoyed around the table, books to be read. Christmas movies to watch, tea to be sipped, and cookies to be decorated.

This season is full for all of the right reasons, but here is your permission to also “unfill” this season and make space, time to slow, watch the lights twinkle on the tree and the deer resting in the snowy woods behind your house. Maybe fill up on the memories of young children in awe of the magic and wonder of this holiday.

If you see others making Christmas tree rice Krispies, Holiday Cards, or driving by a Christmas light show, feel free to say no if it’s not for you.

Everything you say no to is one more thing you get to say yes to.

I am trying to remember that my children & family do not need more to do, or more to open. They need my presence. Thich Nhat Hanh said it best when he said “when you love someone, the best thing you can offer is your presence. How can you love if you are not there?”

Make space this season for being there.

Best,

Liz