I eyed the calendar suspiciously.

I blinked. That can’t be right. Didn’t we just do this like five minutes ago?!?

But as I looked again, I realized it to be true. The holidays are upon us.

Sure, that sounds a bit cliche, but seriously– it seems the older I get, the faster the pages of the calendar turn.

Don’t get me wrong– I am not stunt double for the Grinch that Stole Christmas. I like the holidays. I really do. The fun, the family time (when applicable– hey, it’s the army!) and the festivities make that little spot in my heart get all warm and fuzzy.

What I DON’T appreciate is the stress that seems to come with the holidays.

Because really, if I am wound up about the holiday season and stressed to the max, I fail to enjoy it. I spend more time worried about all the things instead of reveling in the blessing that comes with all the things.

So this year, I am going on strike regarding holiday stress. Starting NOW, I am making a holiday switch from stressed to blessed. And I wanted to share with you some of my proactive techniques and expectations I am setting in advance. 

1. Sharing my expectations– then sticking to my guns. That’s right. Talk with your people and determine what you want to get out of this holiday season. My Beloved Soldier has had a very busy year… And my job has also kept me on my toes. Oh. And we chase a toddler too. And I trained for my first marathon. And, and, and…. So we have already set the expectation that this holiday will be low key because we need to recharge more than have the banister decorated with organic, hand-braided pine boughs.  My in-laws are coming for Christmas this year (don’t worry– I love them to death– they are awesome!) so we have already told them to bring comfy clothes and prepare to eat, sleep and be pseudo-hermit-like. We have never been so excited to be this boring.

Keep on reading about my switcheroo techniques over at Army Wife Network. 

Dear reader, which of these tips resonates with you the most? What would you add to the list? I always love to hear feedback. Chime in and leave a comment.

And may you have a beautiful holiday season as you make the switch from stressed to blessed!

So Blessed,

“May you be blessed by the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” ~Psalm 115:15

Linking up today with Kelly,   Laura at Playdates with God,  Joan’s  Beauty in His Grip,  Jen over at Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood,  and Hazel via  Tell Me a Story. Be sure to join our #EverydayJesus link-up community right here at 7 Days Time every Thursday!