five things I don't do in December
simplifying the season takes some forethought
When the signs announcing our town’s street parade go up, I know I can’t ignore it any longer: we’re on the countdown to Christmas. It’s one of my favourite annual events, complete with bagpipes and decorated tractors and santa throwing lollies from the back of a ute. There is always a nativity scene of some sort and school kids handing out vegetable seedlings in small pots. This is the joy of living in a small town.
We’re currently in the midst of two weeks of high school production which involves lots of driving to and from the theatre and all the costume makeup and excitement you can imagine. I think it’s worth noting that if you need to muster a sense of hope, a stage spilling over with enthusiasm together with voices rising to the rafters creates a palpable sense of joy. Highly recommend. There’s also a deep, resounding sense of awe when you see your own child revel in the drama. I’m a totally giddy stage mum for the next week and I will not apologise.
Like I do every year, I’m also cradling the weariness and waning enthusiasm of the littlest ones, gently nudging them through morning and evening routines. Some days, I treat myself with a similar kind of kindness. Unsurprisingly, it actually works.