“He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree.” – Roy L. Smith… I love this quote. It’s one of those things you read that really help you remember to stop and slow down for a minute. The holidays are such a crazy-busy time of year for most of us – there is just so much fun to pack into such a short time. Parties to host, events to attend, holiday attire to shop for, gifts to buy, relatives to visit, trees to decorate, cookies to bake… But along with all of that fun can come a lot of stress, as you strive to do everything you feel you “have to” do, and attempt to create the “perfect” Christmas. But like the quote says – the most important part of the season is to feel Christmas in your heart. What does that mean? Well, it’ll be different for each person… For me, it’s remembering what I’m thankful for. Counting the blessings we’ve had this past year. Taking time to do good, give back, and donate gifts to the less fortunate. And to take the focus off of buying and spending and let myself just enjoy the little moments – snuggling on the couch with Abby to watch old Christmas cartoons, or watching the snow fall late at night while enjoying a glass of wine – peaceful.
Another thing that’s been helping me slow down and savor the season is this super fun holiday countdown calendar from Chateau Ste. Michelle. Each day you get a new idea that encourages you to take time for yourself, do something fun, and remember to enjoy the holiday craziness. A few of my favorites this week….
“At Some Point Today, Pour A Glass Of Wine, Put Your Feet Up And Daydream About Your Next Tropical Vacation Spot.” I was already a fan of Chateau Ste. Michelle wine, since it’s made locally here in Washington Wine Country. And I love an excuse for a little daydreaming… I’d love to travel somewhere sunny and warm again, like this beautiful beach near the Ritz Carlton in Laguna Niguel that I visited during Mom 2.0 this year. Seriously breathtaking…
“Dance And Sing At The Top Of Your Lungs To Something That Doesn’t Have Lyrics About Jingle Bells Or Talking Snowmen.” Ok, I admit it… I am a holiday music JUNKIE. I have 10 Christmas stations on Pandora – from silly kid-friendly stations to Country Christmas to old fashioned classic tunes. But, it’s still fun to take a minute to turn up something non-holiday and dance and sing like a wild woman – you won’t believe how great you feel afterwards! I’m currently LOVING this new mix of the best of 2013 songs… And I love entertaining the neighbors by dancing around my kitchen like a fool… Lol.
In such a crazy time of the year, it’s never been more important to go to Your Chateau. This holiday season, Chateau Ste. Michelle wants to help you find that time or place where YOU can become YOU again. Follow the MY CHATEAU Holiday Calendar: http://www.facebook.com/stemichelle.
“Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.” – Norman Vincent Peale
{Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Chateau Ste. Michelle via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Chateau Ste. Michelle.}
Great quote by Smith. So true. I love Pandora too, I have Christmas music playing from t-giving on. And I sing and dance all over the house! We’re in FL, where it’s usually 70 on Christmas, so we have to “encourage” the spirit around here!