The Holiday Stress-O-Meter

As the holidays approach, stress levels rise. I never quite understood this phenomenon. I mean, I know the logistics behind it - lots to do, lots to clean, have to make sure everything's just right - the perfect meal, the perfect gifts, etc, so-on, & so forth. But why do we do this to ourselves? Is it out of love? shame? pride?

Every year my mom asks me if I have a christmas list, and every year (of my adult life, at least), other than the obligatory "socks and underwear" I tell her no. At this point in my life, its a gift to just be around them - no gimicks or ploys necessary. Now I realize that not everyone feels the same way about their family members & certain enticements (such as the promise of presents during the holidays) are needed. so be it, but the simpler you can make your holidays the better for the ol' stress-O-meter.

Why not make your holiday presents this year?

Challenge: Make at least one present for the holidays

You don't have to be Martha Stewart to make a nice little gift for someone. It can be as simple as a batch of cookies, or as complicated as a quilt. You can write a poem, take a photograph, etc. Use your skills and your creative sense to make something that is special.

If you need ideas, you can pop over to 101 Handmade Gift Ideas for projects, inspiration, and instructions.

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Cat Logic

photo by Swedish Viper.

Today is one of those windy fall days that makes it seem much cooler outside than it really is. As I sit in my office (not really wanting to be in here), I find myself staring out the window - daydreaming. When I come to, I notice that one of my cats is also staring out the window - but he is poised for action. It seems the wind has whipped up a great many leaves and is blowing them across the yard. Oz, now glued to the window, his tail flicking from right to left, head darting one direction then another, is chasing the falling leaves.

Occasionally he lunges toward a particular leaf, stubbing his paw (& his nose) on the invisible barrier of glass. - Not to be deterred, however, he quickly regroups, setting his sites on a new leaf. A new focus, new excitement.

So, it is here that I take a lesson from my cat: whatever you do, do with fervor, simplicity, and Joy. If you're not enjoying it, refocus - & find the excitement... the joy.

It doesn't matter to him that he can't catch the leaves. He's just having fun trying.

Challenge: Find your Joy

Just like Oz, find joy in simple tasks, and if it's not working, refocus. Make a list of joyful things, not just objects but tasks that you can undertake to help you recharge when your joy reserves are getting a little low.

Activity: Take yourself out on an Artist's Date

Do something just for you. If you need ideas, check out Julia Cameron's The Artists Way, checkout the Online Workshop, or 101 Ideas.

Thanks for visiting, check out these wonderful sites:

Gardening:


P. Allen Smith's Garden Home

Cultivating Life

The Kitchen Gardener


Simple Living:


Simple Living

Simple Living America


Cooking:


Everyday Food


A Daily does of Creativity:


Story People

Leonardo da Vinci

Today's Poem

Your Daily Art

Quote of the Day

Planet Sark