For the past two years, my family and I have taken December back! What does that mean? How does this work? Well, in our house we focused on the true meaning of Christmas! In the past the month of December and the preparation up to Christmas Day – got a little out of control for my family. So I wanted the month back. I wanted my family to really understand and focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Yes, we are Christians here at the Primozic Household, so the idea is to celebrate Jesus more and the Christmas craze less.

Here’s my thought process on taking December back. We are good to those in need all year, not just one month a year, we bake year round too – so no need to get too crazy with the baking. Being kind, good spirited and jolly – we better be working on these all year long. No need to be jolly for one month, we will be committed to such jolliness year round!!

Taking December back can be challenging! We have said no to a few events or traditions. We had to remind our loved ones that we love them all year long, not just in December. We have not sent Christmas cards (this was major for me, as I love doing the photo cards; but honestly it was freeing to give myself permission to ixnay the cards). We have had to really focus on what was important to us during the Christmas season.

Now, I am not being a scrooge here. Of course, we cherish our favorite things and events of the season. We continue to hike through the tree farm to find the perfect tree, decorate our home with our favorite decorations, and spend time reading Christmas stories by the fire. We do have to regularly remind ourselves of the reason for the season!

Gift giving! Santa’s got that! My husband and I try to focus on gifts for our kids, not adults who already have all they need. A couple years ago I wrote thankful emails to my kid’s teachers instead of giving gifts. Yes, this took a little more time, but hey I was committed to taking December back.

Guess what? After taking December back for two years now, Christmas still came and I think my family felt good. We were grounded and calm. Did we have to say no to a few things? Most certainly! Did I tell everyone I was taking December back? You bet! Did I get a lot of crazy looks? YES! In the end the peace was the reward. It was not perfect, but it was better. Hey, imperfect progress is my favorite.

We see the word “Peace” thrown around quite a bit in December, but do we as a culture really mean this during this month of December? I have seen commercials where people act overwhelmed with the holidays, and sometimes almost annoyed at the season. Is this peace??

After the past two years, I have learned December 25th is coming no matter what I say or do – so why not make it count and enjoy the peace of the season and create meaningful memories with my family. Sitting by the fire and enjoying our Christmas tree is our favorite.

This year – we are taking December back again! Anyone want to join me??