(Read about today’s activity here.)

Is it just me or does Christmas just seem stressful? I feel like I have so many things to do. I finished my shopping early so I could just relax and enjoy the holidays but then I decided to make bread for our neighbors and that also means making it for my mom to give to her friends. I know I don’t have to do it but I enjoy doing it…until it feels like it consumes my life. Then there were the good deals on photo books that I try to do yearly for my kids but I haven’t done them in 2 years…so another project. I haven’t even factored in all the parties and treats to make for the parties, plus Elese’s birthday. Don’t get me wrong…I sort of love when things are crazy but suddenly my responsibilities like doing laundry, church callings and getting the kids dressed before the very last possible moment seem to all fall to the way side. So even though I’m feeling a bit over whelemed I’ve decided to do my best to focus on the things that bring me joy…my family.

Steven gave me a nice massge this morning to help me calm the heck down.

Then Elese walked around with her photo book from two years ago saying…”This book has songs in it.” (It doesn’t), then she was singing “When I was a baby…I love you when you a baby!” Then she asked, “Mommym can I sing this on the piano?” So that brought enough joy to me that right now, as she is crying and screaming, I only want to scream just a little, rather than alot.

Then there is Max and his love of creating blue prints to our future home on his etch-sketch. Although it does get me a little down when I realize that we could never afford a bat cave for our home it is still very fun to see him taking an interest in grown up things. And that is what got me through the last hour of helping him with a school worksheet.

Fortunately Steven has a shoot coming up that should be very enjoyable for everyone but him…because he will be working…but  at least we’ll have some time together without the stresses of home.

So it is my wish to all of you that you can find joy in the small things during this stressful time of year.

My current affirmation is…

“I am a fun and attentive mother and I find joy in my daily responsibilities.”

Here are some other suggested affirmations

I find joy in my children.

I am a fun mom.

I play with my children daily.

I choose to be happy.

There is happiness in my home.

I can overcome hard things.

Children find joy in my home.

Having happy children is more important to me than having a clean house.

I read to my children daily.

I cook healthy meals for my family and I LOVE IT!

I love my children even when they are being difficult.