We’re in the final countdown to Christmas, and “it” is here. As a matter if fact, “it” started about two weeks ago, a little earlier than usual. “It” is that twisted up feeling I get inside every year at some point during the holiday season. Yep. It’s here, and it’s not pleasant.

Right now, I feel like every inch of my house contains some sort of clutter or chaos. There is definitely no peace in my little patch of this earth. And I never even put up all of my Christmas decorations. That would be such a lovely excuse for the mess and general disorder. No such luck.

Then pile on top of the mess the fact that gifts need purchased and wrapped, parties need prepared for, school work needs finished up. I think I could go crazy. Seriously.

Over these past couple of weeks, I’ve had to figure out ways to cope so that I don’t either lose my mind or break down in a puddle tears. These thoughts will be especially important during this final week.

Here are some things I’m doing (or not doing) this crazy, chaotic year:

–Keep up with my calendars. I might not do everything on my weekly calendar, but at least I know where I’m supposed to go and when I’m supposed to be there. That’s a blessing when I’m busy running around like a chicken with my head cut off.

–Focus on what’s important. I have to keep reminding myself that people matter and things don’t. I’m trying to spend my time on things that will bring joy to my family (like the advent bags) and not worry so much about things that can wait (like cleaning out the kids’ rooms).

–Forget about what isn’t important. I didn’t send out Christmas cards this year. Again. I also didn’t hang our beautiful garland or indoor wreaths. Somehow I think Christmas will still come. I hope to do some more cleaning and baking this week, but I have my doubts about what I’ll actually get done. I’ve decided that I’m not going to cry over the unimportant things that will inevitably get lost in the shuffle.

–Do something small to get started. I’m finding that doing some small, easy tasks often gives me the little jump start I need to do the bigger things calling my name. Organizing a cabinet, wrapping a gift, or hanging a wreath can help get me going.

–Stash clutter out of sight. There is just too much stuff stacked in corners and piled beside the furniture. It makes our house feel two sizes too small. If I put my mind (and my kids) to it, I can likely get a lot of the junk put in its rightful place. I might simply hide those things that will require more time and organizational skill to take care of. Out of sight, out of mind. Fake peace is better than no peace.

–Smile…..enjoy…..relax. This week we’re going to watch lots of Christmas movies. I hope to color pictures, do crafts, and decorate some cookies, too. BUT I have decided that I’m not going to stress out over what we don’t get to do. Who says you can’t make cookies the week after Christmas? This is a time to make some memories. Hopefully some good ones!

This post is linked to Raising Homemakers.