If you've been reading this blog for more than the last 15 minutes, you know that I'm a huge fan of planning and preparation.  Getting ahead of the curve reduces stress and leads to more enjoyable celebrations.  Not planning ahead can lead to Christmas dinner at Denny's with no eggnog or chocolate milk (gratuitous Santa Clause reference).

But it's important to find a good balance.  It's possible to get so focused on planning and preparing that you forget to enjoy.  Spending the whole weekend indoors writing cards and polishing silver could mean not spending time with loved ones or not getting outdoors to enjoy an autumn weekend.

No present, no decoration, no recipe is as important as your presence and focus.If your preparations have started to overwhelm your celebrations, it's time to scale back.  Let yourself actually enjoy Thanksgiving before going full out on Christmas.  Focus on the preparations that you find meaningful and enjoyable and scale back on those you don't.  If you hate sending cards, why do you do it?  Just make a few phone calls to loved ones.  If you hate baking, stop by a bakery for your goodies. 

Christmas is still six weeks away.  You have time to decide what matters most and pursue those things.