An ever curious traveler with a passion for making memories with my family. I give families the tools to experience the joys of travelling, no matter your budget. Through quick, practical solutions. Join me if you'd like to make more memories confidently travelling with your kids, without straining your finances, going into debt, or feeling like you'd have to sell off a kidney to fund your next vacation.
πGet in the Festive Spirit - Week Three
Hey Reader,
I can't believe it's not butter.... LOL just kidding.
I can't believe it's only a week before Christmas. We have pretty simple traditions over here, and most of the stuff is already done.
Which is good, as my partner unexpectedly had to travel and may not make it back for Christmas. He usually does the turkey...which I just don't do. So I'm looking for some fun alternatives. If you have any other fun & easy Christmas dinner ideas (can be anything) send them my way.
Simplifying the holidays leads into my suggestion for this week.
Week Three
βοΈ Find time for a little self care this week.
It can be easy to caught up in the whirlwind of ALL THE THINGS, and making the magic for everyone else. There's so much mom's / parents are expected to do over this season; clean, buy & wrap gifts, bake, cook, create fun activities for the kids, plan, shop....insert mile long to-do list here.
It's important to find ways to keep you merry and bright in the festive season. Here are a few strategies to help:
- Jingle Bell Relaxation - Schedule in a little "ME TIME", even if it's only 15 minutes over coffee in the morning before everyone's awake, reading a few pages of a good book, or taking a walk around the neighbourhood. Don't forget to breathe.
- Walking in a Winter Wonderland - Get out in nature and recharge with a moment of mindful reflection and outdoor medicine, amidst the festive frenzy.
- Delegate oh Fearless Elf Work Leader - Ask for help, and delegate tasks. You don't have to do everything yourself. Kids can even help out with cleaning, setting tables, wrapping presents etc. Sure it may not look "perfect" but it will be imperfectly fanatastic!
- Connect with friends - Connect with your fellow elves (friends) over a cup of hot cocoa or a festive Zoom party. Sharing stories, laughter, and support with those who light up your life is a fantastic way to lift your spirits and spread Christmas cheer.
- Silent Night - Try and get a good amount of sleep. I know this can be hard, especially with littles and a big to-do list. Everything will seem brighter with a good night's sleep.
- It's ok to say NO: Friendly elf reminder that it's ok to say no to things. Whether it's too many activities, not good for your mental health, or your kids (& the adults) just need a bit of down time, saying no can be just the Santa gift you need to make the holiday magical.
- Gratitude Journal - write down something you are grateful for every day before you go to sleep. It can be as simple as a hug from your kids, or the smell of fresh baking. I have a free Gratitude journal page you can grab below.
FREEBIE 4 YOU:
I've made this sweet Gratitude Journal page for you, to help get you started super quick. Just print out and off you go!
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SOMETHING TO LISTEN TO:
Stuart McLean's "Dave Cooks a Turkey."β
Do yourself a favour and listen to this hilarious story from a Canadian storytelling icon. It's one of my yearly traditions and I still laugh every time.
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WHAT TO MAKE:
One of our favourite things to do as a family is make some Christmas cookies or themed snacks together.
While my mom spent weeks baking 20 different treats when we were kids, I limit ours to 1 or 2, to make it easier on the parents, i.e ME. I can hear you saying, but I could never get away with only doing 1 treat.... I say you are the controller of your own destiny!
Here are a few recipe ideas to inspire some flour flying, sugar highs & tasty Santa treats:
- βKid Friendly Holiday treats, snacks & savoury dishes from around the worldβ
- βEasy no bake Christmas treats - easy to make with or without kids
- βFestive kid-friendly Christmas appetizers - sweet and savoury
Here's to an unforgettable month, done your way,
P.S. Need help making your goals happen this year? My friend Leonie's My Brilliant Year Life & Biz Workbooks are a delightful way to help you not only dream your biggest dream and set your goals, but to actually MAKE THEM HAPPEN too. Give yourself a little Christmas gift.
I'm part of her brilliant Biz & Life Academy - so much goodness packed into these courses, checklists, workshops & it's fun!
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Let's Connect:
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Packed for Life | Family Travel
Donna Garrison
An ever curious traveler with a passion for making memories with my family. I give families the tools to experience the joys of travelling, no matter your budget. Through quick, practical solutions. Join me if you'd like to make more memories confidently travelling with your kids, without straining your finances, going into debt, or feeling like you'd have to sell off a kidney to fund your next vacation.
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