Focus, I tell myself because–I don’t know about you–I tend to get a little distracted during this season.
I’m running a mile a minute, getting everything prepared for crazy long weekends of Thanksmasbirthday, neighborhood parties, and church events. The next thing I know I’m standing on the scales in January, muttering, “Oh dear.”
So, FOCUS, I tell myself repeatedly. Watch what you’re doing. Take a beat. Think of all the cliches you know–“Presence over presents,” for example–I can guarantee I’ve told myself every single one of them.
Now, you’re probably thinking, “That’s great, but what in the world does that have to do with your Christmas decorations? The headline says: Take a Close-up Look at My Christmas Decorations. So, umm.”
I’m getting to that. But first, take a look at this…
When we had Thanksmasbirthday it was a challenge, but I tried to have a little one-on-one time with each one of these precious gifts. I took time to focus on each child’s beautiful individuality.
I’m convinced my mantra of “Focus, Tracey, focus” is paying off. It’s causing me to pay more attention to the smallest details and not just fly by them.
So, with the theme of “Focus” in mind, I thought I’d share some close-ups of my Christmas decorations. You probably already have your decorations out, but consider this a friendly reminder to enjoy every little bit of them!
Hanging Special Memories on the Christmas Tree
My grandmother made me so many sweet ornaments. I love this one especially because my name is written in her handwriting. She was left-handed and had a distinctive style. This ornament takes me back to my childhood, and memories of being dearly loved by my “Gabby.”
I love ornaments with dates on them. My mother gave me her whole set of Haviland ornaments, and I think they are beautiful. My family had a gift shop, Dodson’s, and we sold these. I have the decade of the ’70s, which took me from age 10 to 20. What a plethora of memories!
Reminders of Christmas Joys
I like to tuck little Christmas vignettes in a variety of places. The Santa is on the shelf where we keep the Roku. I’ve tried to disguise the black device but there’s only so much that can be done if we want to use it! Oh, well. Maybe a little Christmas cheer will divert the attention! The carolers cause me to hum “Oh Come All Ye Faithful” and other Christmas carols.
Making the Ordinary Special
What's Your Focus During the Hustle and Bustle?
It’s easy to overlook little things–and that’s good when you’re trying to stay married, LOL, but not as good if it means you aren’t enjoying the moment. Let me encourage you to slow down (just a little!) and allow the treasures you pull out for Christmas to carry you back to warm memories. For me, as I’m sure it is for you, it isn’t about the knickknacks, accessories, ribbon, or ornaments. It’s about what each of these things reminds me of.
Celebrating Christmas is precious. We’re celebrating the birth of our Savior. He deserves everything beautiful and praise-worthy. All the music, all the decorations, all the memories are a gift from Him because He’s the source of love and light. And, ultimately, He deserves our primary focus.
Are you easily distracted by the busy-ness of the holiday season or are you deliberately making time to enjoy the details? What keeps you focused on the Star of the show?
Judy Vance
Your family owned Dodson’s Door?!!! I LOVED that store & have had so many beautiful things from there. I was just trying to remember the name last week!
Tracey Buchanan
Yes, we did! Glad you have good memories of the store!