Christmas Season Reflections :: Life Giving & Life-Draining List

Life-Giving

--> planning ahead what is most important to do during the Christmas season in October 

--> making moments to reflect upon Jesus' birth and what all was happening in history at the time

--> praying and allowing God's peace to simmer in my heart and soul

--> using Honey app on my desktop for comparison price shopping

--> having a list of gifts needed when Black Friday comes around

--> wrapping gifts as we receive them in the mail

--> Advent Tree preparation in November

--> placing Pop-Its and Fidget Toys for the boys & chocolates in the Advent Calendar Tree pockets

--> putting up lights in the living room and on the Christmas Tree (soft white is my favorite)

--> buying ready-made food for celebrations (Zoup, Panera Soup)

--> wearing Ugly Christmas sweaters and Christmas pajamas

--> having white elephant gifts on-hand in the house

--> CREATING

Life-Draining

--> overwhelmed buying for everyone even with relatives' money for the boys and keeping it all equal

--> commercialism and seeing Toy Ads everywhere

--> cooking food and making menus

--> preparing church ministry events in addition to Ian's Birthday party and other family planning events

--> clutter

--> having anxiety about Covid and flu in gatherings

--> trying to travel a lot to see family

--> feeling Christmas card pressure when no decent family photos are present

--> paying postage for stamps 

Excerpt: Reasoning for not doing Santa Claus

Sometimes as Christians, we have to make decisions about how we will live our life differently because of the difference that Christ has made in our lives. And sometimes these decisions are not popular with other people.

It’s difficult to go against the flow.

We made one of those decisions recently. We are not including Santa Claus in any of our Christmas celebrations. It’s been difficult. And our child is only two and a half years old. How much harder will it be when she’s in school?

First, there are the random strangers who ask our daughter if she’s ready for Santa Claus. Then there are our 8 and 10 year old nieces who claim they still believe in Santa Claus. (We may not follow the crowd on Santa Claus, but I am not about to rain on any kid’s parade.) Then there is the rest of the family. Some are Christians and some are not, but they don’t understand why we wouldn’t want to include Santa Claus. After all, EVERYONE is doing it.

How do you deal with the criticisms, the looks, and the sometimes-harsh words regarding this kind of decision? As you would with any matter of faith.

Know what you believe. Know why you believe it.

We have prayerfully considered how the decision to not include Santa Claus will impact our family and our daughter as she grows. We have listed our reasons WHY we do not want to celebrate Santa. And we are ready to share with those who want to listen.

This decision was not made lightly. And it wasn’t made with the intention of rocking the boat. We are respectful that other people hold very dearly to the Santa Claus story and all that he represents.

I’m not sharing all of this to try to convince anyone else of what they should or shouldn’t do. I’m sharing because it’s hard to be different, and it’s comforting when we find others with similar beliefs and values.

Paul tells us in Romans 12 that we are not to “copy the behavior and customs of this world.” (v.2, NLT) That tells me that “just because everybody else is doing it” isn’t a good excuse. (And I have a feeling that I will be reciting that verse a lot as our daughter gets into her tween- and teen-age years.) Paul says it’s okay to be counter-cultural.

However, Paul also reminds us in Colossians 2:16ff that we are not to condemn other Christians who observe customs of the culture. Just because we do something that is counter-cultural doesn’t make us or our children spiritually superior.

Back to the original advice: Know what you believe and why you believe it. Be able to explain why you celebrate Christmas (or any other holiday or cultural custom) differently. Plan ahead. Talk to parents that have made the same decision who have older children and ask them what obstacles they have encountered.

And be prepared. Your children will question why your family does things differently. They may feel left out. Let them know that it’s okay to be different. Use age-appropriate words to explain why this decision is best for your family.

It may not be the easy road. But teaching your children to honor Jesus will be worth it.

Truth in the Tinsel & Alternatives to Elf-on-the-Shelf

I'm loving the journey of seeking alternatives for presenting Santa to Ian for Christmas. We decided long before Ian not to participate in the magic and story of Santa Claus and instead to focus solely on Christ's birth and the meaning of the holiday that is Christmas.  Although there may be some of the "magic" of the season that he might miss out on, we believe that the focus on Jesus will actually be just as magical and even more meaningful with various traditions and crafts. See next post.

Go here to see it all.

I know people love the Elf on the Shelf. It’s a magical little tradition that gets kids ready for Christmas and apparently, controls their behavior. (It does sound magical, doesn’t it?!) For those who don’t want to incorporate Santa and his elves into their daily December, here’s a few fun alternatives to a Christmas countdown activity.

1. Christmas Mouse

Source: minimocha.blogspot.com via ohAmanda {impress your kids} on Pinterest

This is the cutest little thing you’ve ever seen! The Christmas Mouse travels the world and takes a mini-vacation at your house during December. Every day he leaves treasures from his travels. {please click over to Mini Mocha and see all her gorgeous ideas!}

2. Christmas Angel

Source: yourchristmasangel.com via ohAmanda {impress your kids} on Pinterest

The Christmas Angel comes with a cute plush angel, a bag of gold  dust and a storybook. The story explains how the angel came to Mary and told her she was going to have baby Jesus. So, like the Elf on the Shelf, when your child wakes up every morning, they look for the angel who has written a message in the gold dust–”hug mom”, “make cookies”, “give a gift”. The idea is to give every day after reading the message from the angel.

3. Book Countdown

Source: vanderbiltwife.com via ohAmanda {impress your kids} on Pinterest

I’m a sucker for a Christmas book. The day after Christmas is my favorite day because Barnes and Noble puts all their Christmas books 50% off! So, grab 25 of your favorite Christmas books, wrap each one individually and every day of December unwrap one and read it together with your kids.

I love this because it gives your kids quality time, you are reading together and it makes for a surprise each day! My friend Jessie has a great list of 25 Jesus-centric Christmas books for this tradition!

4. What God Wants for Christmas

I got this at a Christian bookstore on an after-Christmas clearance a few years ago. It’s a kit that includes seven boxes which house nativity scene figures. Every night for a week, you pick a new box, read the story and open the box. The last night, you think would be baby Jesus, instead it’s a mirror! The gift God wants is YOU!

I love it because it’s only a 7 day countdown. You can fit 7 days into December for sure!

5. Mary & Joseph’s Trip to Bethlehem

I tried to find a link to this online, but just couldn’t find one. It’s such a simple idea that doesn’t require any crazy set-up or even a big purchase.

If you have a nativity scene, set it all up except for Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus. Just hide Jesus away and then place Mary and Joseph far far away in another part of the house.Each morning, place Mary and Joseph a little closer to Bethlehem…er, your manger scene. By Christmas Eve, they can set up in the stable and on Christmas Day, place Jesus in the center!

My kids would love to search for Mary and Joseph every day! I think I’m going to do this in December!

6. Advent Wreath

Source: adventtolenttoascensionwreath.blogspot.com via ohAmanda {impress your kids} on Pinterest

This is a meaningful, beautiful piece of art which doubles as a countdown activity. Each day, move the donkey and Mary figure closer to the center of the wreath adding Advent candles as you go. You can extend it (and use it again) during Lent as you get ready for Jesus’ death and resurrection on the cross. You have to click over to see all the gorgeous pictures of this wreath!

7. Light ‘Em Up

Source: lillightomine.com via ohAmanda {impress your kids} on Pinterest

You’ve heard of Random Acts of Kindness during the holidays, right? Well, Courtney at Lil Light of Mine gives over 50 fun ideas, printables and more to light up December with kindness!

8. Shepherd’s Pouches

Source: blog.jamesandjuliepaquette.com via ohAmanda {impress your kids} on Pinterest

I super love this idea. Instead of stockings, hang up small, unadorned pouches. During December, when your children help someone, do chores, are kind, etc. place money in the pouches. On Christmas Eve, take the money from the pouches and use it to buy a gift from Compassion’s gift catalog or give it to someone in need.

This is cool because it gives the same feel as the elf watching your behavior, but with better motivation. Head over to Julie’s blog to read all her wording and ideas on how to implement this with your kids!

9. TRUTH IN THE TINSELYou knew I was gonna say that, right? It’s a wonderful and simple idea: read the Christmas story from the Bible, make an ornament to go along with the passage and talk about it with your kids. It includes printables, the words to say and simple tutorials. It doesn’t get much better than that! Get your own copy now! 

10. What’s your favorite fun Christmas countdown, activity or tradition for getting kids ready for Christmas?

Amanda is the author of Truth in the Tinsel: An Advent Experience for Little Hands. She is a mom of two, former Children’s Pastor, Disney-fan, kids’ book lover and collects too many Christmas ornaments. She blogs at ohAmanda.com on a semi-regular basis. 

A Gratitude Jar or Chain

I believe I am going to do this with Ian and Mark this year for Thanksgiving - should be fun! Even if we're almost half-way through November!

Go here for the pdf download from Paper Coterie.

MY WORD & Holiday Eating: Mission Possible

I'm prepping myself for the holidays and for intentional eating where I can lose this baby weight in order to help my body return and improve to a better condition. The key word for 2013 I think I know already...{consistency}.

It isn't about me running a half marathon 4 months post-baby (which I did twice after Ian - CRAZY) but rather about re-establishing a base for my body to build off of for years to come. I was privileged to do Yoga and Pilates classes after Ian and that is just not the case now so I'll have to figure out another way to help my core to rebuild.

                                           

Probably my consistency needs to be primarily in my relationship with God although my tangible brain if more ready to pursue a running/cycling/swimming routine. I'm not sure how this will look but I know it is of utmost importance.  Consistency in parenting...with Ian in discipline and love and with Eli's routine. 
                                                 
Consistency in fitness and pursuing a base to build upon. In addition, I'd love to continue to gain knowledge in running and in triathlon training. I love speaking to other women about it and how they can gain confidence, gain energy and help any depression or emotional turmoil in their lives. So we'll see - so here's the article I wanted to share and remind myself of as Holidays come upon me:

If you've ever tried to stay on track with nutrition throughout the winter holiday season, you can forget the saying "it's as easy as pie." Weight gain, stomach distress, lethargy and poor body image are a few of the many common side effects of approaching the holidays with an unhealthy relationship with food and the body.

Do you feel out of control with holiday sweets? With 365 days in a year and only 3 federal holidays between November and January (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day), consider that your anxiety about preventing the typical holiday weight gain may be a bit exaggerated. Perhaps it is the added stress about an overabundance of seasonal holiday food (much prior to the actual holiday), alongside the unintentional weight gain from January until November, that causes you to feel uneasy about the holiday festivities.

Do you feel better after you eat than before? If so, there's absolutely no reason to worry about a few trivial added pounds over the holidays. Instead of speaking poorly about your body in front of the mirror (thus forgetting what your body has allowed you to do in life, like crossing finishing lines), find enjoyment as you indulge in your grandma's cobbler, prepared with love and memories. Whether you are eating a balanced, wholesome diet or enjoying the occasional treat, never forget the importance of mindful and intuitive eating. As you eat for fuel and for health, eat with a plan and a purpose.

Instead of adding to the hundreds of tips available on the internet on the topic "Healthy Holiday Eating," here are a few tips to overcome the anxiety that comes with having an unhealthy relationship with food. 
Instead of saying......
 

1) "I shouldn't eat this," say
"I am so thankful that I have an opportunity to enjoy some occasional treats (prepared with love) with the people who I care about the most in this world."

2) "It doesn't matter if I eat that, I already ruined my diet," say
"I am really proud of myself for being able to regret, reflect and change my past habits, which will ultimately help me reach my short and long term goals."

3) "I may as well have another because I already cheated," say
"I am thankful that I have a balanced diet where no food is off-limit. Because I eat well most of the time, I don't have to worry about the rest of the time."

4) "I'm being so bad," say
"Knowing that my daily habits such as not going into a meal starving, eating balanced meals, snacking nutritiously with a purpose, drinking plenty of water and focusing on wholesome foods are helping me to control blood sugar and reduce cravings/overeating, I feel great because I know I will stop eating when I am satisfied and will be well-fueled for my next workout."

5) "I am going to be so fat after this," say
"I know that my weight fluctuates throughout the day and not all is lost or ruined in one day or in one meal."

6) "Uggh, I need to find a diet to help me lose weight, fast!" Say,
"I know that an extreme diet is not a lifestyle. I want to create balanced eating habits in order to live a quality life in order to reduce my risk for disease, to help increase longevity and to improve my fitness. If I cannot address my weaknesses on my own, I will seek out a qualified professional (ex. Registered Dietitian) to help me in my personal nutrition journey."

Final reminder: If your body is in good health, recovering from injury/illness/disease or if you are overcoming obstacles in your life, spend your energy on being thankful for living another year. Never forget that food should not be your life. Use food wisely and let it enhance your life.

Marni Sumbal, MS, RD, LD/N

Marni works as a Clinical Dietitian at Baptist Medical Center Beaches, is the owner of Trimarni Coaching and Nutrition, LLC and provides one-on-one consulting in the Jacksonville, FL area. Marni is a Registered Dietitian, holding a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology and is a Certified Sports Nutritionist (CISSN). As an elite endurance athlete, she is also a Level-1 USAT Coach and a 5x Ironman finisher. Marni is a 110% play harder, Hammer Nutrition and Oakley Women brand ambassador. Marni enjoys public speaking and writing, and she has several published articles in Fitness Magazine, Bicycling Magazine, The Florida Times-Union Shorelines, Lava Magazine, Hammer Endurance News, CosmoGirl magazine and Triathlete Magazine, and contributes to IronGirl.com, USAT multisport zone and Lava online.

Email trimarnicoaching@gmail.com
Blog: trimarniblogspot.com
Website: trimarnicoach.com

The Plan

My goal is to keep the gains I made during off-season while enjoying the break. In an effort to keep in shape and rest at the same time both  athletes and I use some of the following strategies.

1. Try something new. Fall is a great time to try that new aerobics class you heard about at the gym or new workout tape you have been wanted to try from the television. During the season you are really tied in to a specific plan and there is not always a lot of room for creativity or something new. Use this time to spread you wings and exercise for fun alone.

2. Flex Those Muscles. I am an advocate for year-round strength training but for those athletes who have not incorporated it into their regular training schedule the Fall and offseason are the perfect time to start. When you start the offseason lifting program, you do not want to gravitate to the major muscle movements. You really want to hit the smaller ones first. These should also be done at a slightly slower movement rate to help work on stability, balance and strength simultaneously. This will help you to focus on areas that can be the most vulnerable for triathletes and runners such as the hip/glute complex, core, and shoulders. If you are unsure as to where to start I encourage you to seek out a local training group or coach who can help you in this area.

3. Eat with a plan. When you reach the Fall and your offseason you know that you will be navigating the dietary minefield of the upcoming holiday. By having a plan of you can stay ahead of the game. I recommend spending a few hours each Sunday stocking your kitchen with healthy foods and planning your menu for the upcoming week. When you plan ahead and are prepared you are less likely to fall in to the food traps the holidays can bring and lose the progress you made throughout the season.

Fall can be a treat for the senses: the crisp air, apple picking, pumpkin carving, a gorgeous canopy of fall foliage, and the crunch of leaves underfoot. It can also be a time of rest and relaxation. By employing a few of these strategies you can enjoy the offseason without sacrificing the gains you made during the season.

Kristen is currently a full-time triathlon coach, personal trainer, and kid wrangler. Her love and passion for the sport can be seen in many aspects of her life- as a competitor, coach, and fitness writer. Kristen races in sprint to iron distance races, 5K's to marathons and is the founder of Moms Who TRI (Train Race Inspire). She holds a Masters in Administration as well as a degree in Sports Medicine and a degree in Education with a Kinesiology focus. She is a Nationally Certified Athletic Trainer and Certified USA Triathlon. For more information about Moms Who TRI, visitwww.momswhoTRI.com. 

Trunk or Treat - Fall Fest @ TCC

Love this Idea!! - But here is what we did this year!

Source: itswrittenonthewalls.blogspot.com via Melanie on Pinterest

Recent Experiences

As usual A LOT has transpired since my last post, whenever that was.

• Ian & I visited my parents over the July 4th weekend, see some pictures below (LOTS of stories)...
• had some very close friends (i.e. part of our family) visit for a couple of days... (a later post)
• am deciding to change the way I eat completely... (another later post)
• am still running long runs (i.e. 9-13 miles)
• career changes are potentially occurring
• having a lot of vision & purpose talks with friends & family
• losing motivation to mow due to the heat
• listening to Ian as he states full sentences now & shows our expressions on his face!

 Lots of reading with Grandpa

 Planting flowers with Grandma

 Driving the John Deer Tractor!

 A First: Riding in Grandpa's convertible

 Making Fruit Pizza with Grandma

 The Best Pick-up Stick's worker!

 Baby birds Mommy!

 HI!

 A First: making homemade ice cream with Grandpa and Mommy

 The privilege: eating homemade ice cream off of the scoop.

 Walking a Trail

Placing flowers on Grandpa's head, a must. 

"Grandpa I have to tell you something!"

Easter 2011

The Story of Today: church - a blast, Ruff lunch & egg hunt and a small note to a dress.

Dear Dress I was going to wear,

You were quite beautiful and I did want to wear you quite badly. But once I found out that I had tossed my slips from long ago and saw that the front was a little too low for this minister's wife to "represent" on Easter...I figured out that you might be a better fit for me whenever Mark & I go on a 10-year anniversary cruise or second honeymoon to some place warm. Alas, I will fit into you again but it is not the time. Thank you sincerely, Kara

 We are awake & eating breakfast!

 Not the best picture but it will do :)

 Greeting the Peeps

What an awesome day to Praise God - 1,500 people were present to hear the message of how our lives can change when we encounter the miraculous, resurrected Christ and his healing purpose for our lives.

 

 The Ending of a wonderful Day