10 Steps To A Perfectly Imperfect Christmas

Let your kids help with the gift wrapping, and don’t try to “help”. Let them be messy.
Let the ornaments on the tree not be perfectly spaced and arranged.
Expect someone to spill their drink at the dinner table. It happens. Let it go.
Be ok with sending your Christmas cards at the last minute, after Christmas Day, or not at all this year. The world will continue to revolve on its axis, cards or no cards.
Gift bags are a completely acceptable option. I hear even Santa uses them sometimes.
Enjoy all your favorite foods at Christmas dinner, even if you don’t normally indulge in them. This is a special occasion, so enjoy!
When your kids wake you up at O:dark-thirty on Christmas morning, remember these years pass quickly. Focus on the excitement in their eyes and the joy on their faces when they see the presents under the tree. That is priceless and well worth every minute of missed sleep.
Sing your favorite Christmas songs at the top of your lungs, even if you can’t carry a tune. Especially if you can’t carry a tune!
Say no to things you don’t really want to do. Pass on that holiday party you’re not excited about attending, even if you don’t have other plans. A quiet night at home may be just what you need during this busy time. It’s much easier to feel the holiday spirit when you’re not over-committed and exhausted.
Most important—savor the little moments. Not the posed and perfected Instagram moments – the real-life moments full of beauty and sharing and laughter. Those are the stuff of memories and future traditions.

Here’s to savoring those precious moments,

Denee