Mom on a Mission

Friday, November 29, 2013

Gone Shopping – And other holiday traditions

Photo credit: fox2now.com

As you read this post I am either gone shopping or putting up the Christmas tree with my boys. Today is Black Friday, one of the busiest shopping days in the United States. When our kids were younger, my friend and I would do a little early morning shopping, then it was off to breakfast for us.

Door buster sales aside, the best part of shopping is time spent with a friend. Last year was the first time my friend and I decided to change the tradition. Since my son wanted to experience the thrill of Black Friday shopping, I took him. Then we to breakfast, and the tradition continues.

Shopping is not our only holiday tradition, it’s the kickoff of many things to follow. Here’s a short list of things my family likes to do to celebrate the holiday season.

1. Put up the Christmas tree the day after Thanksgiving.

2. Watch holiday movies

3. Play family games

4. Unwind with a good book (this one is my favorite pastime, not necessarily that of my boys)

5. Have family and friends visit

What are some of the traditions you are looking forward to this holiday season?

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

How do you express gratitude?

A tree of gratitude

November is the month for giving thanks and expressing gratitude. During this month we also hear a lot about shopping and great sales. Have you ever stopped to think about the power of Thanksgiving?

A recent article I read talked about the power in the concept of Thanksgiving. This is a time we should give appreciation for our blessings. Beginning today, why not go on a rampage of appreciation? Challenge yourself for the rest of this week, to find ways to express gratitude.

Below are five ways to express gratitude to get your creative juices flowing.

1. Give away something – it’s a feel good moment when you can away something you know the receiver will appreciate.

2. Create a gratitude journal – write down things you are grateful for each day for one week.

3. Use positive affirmations – create a list of your favorite quotes and read one each morning to begin your day.

4. Make a gratitude board – make a collage’ of things you are grateful for.

5. Remind yourself to be grateful – frame a favorite quote.

If you would like additional ideas for expressing gratitude check out 20 Ways to givethanks.

How will you express gratitude today?