Christmas is almost here. This time of year can be magical, but it can also be one of the hardest, busiest, and most stressful times of year.

But look: cute dogs!

Today I’m sharing a little round up of posts to help you keep the holiday more joyful than stressful.

Kids’ activities for the season:

• Download FREE Christmas-themed notebooking pages.
• Make art! Try this Christmas Nativity chalk pastel with a free tutorial.
• Do a Birth of Jesus Bible study for all ages: see how our family used it.
• Visit the library for a few good books to read together.
  We’ve enjoyed The Berenstain Bears Christmas Tree and others but our favorite so far this season is Christmas in the Big Woods picture book. In fact, we like the My First Little House books so much, I may go ahead buy several in the series.

Try these ideas if you’re stuck for gifts:

• Non-toy gift ideas for Toddlers to Teens
• Gifts for book lovers
• 25 ideas for Neighbor Gifts
• What Every Homeschool Mom Really Wants
• Minimalist Shopping Guide for Kids

Keep gift-giving simple.

• 7 Ways to Give Simpler This Christmas; I especially like the gratitude gifts.
• How to Give Generously with only $5
• 4 Ways to Beat Entitlement and Stir Up Gratitude This Christmas

Spread kindness and give yourself a break.

• 22 Tiny Acts of Kindness
• This Christmas, it’s okay…

Happy Christmastime, friends! Don’t let the should-dos, should-makes, should-buys steal the joy of the season — but do be sure to spend a little extra time taking care of YOU so you can spread joy instead of stress.

Links like these are the kinds of things I share on my facebook page, so come on over and follow there for more useful and encouraging posts!

Jamie

Wife, mom, J-ma. Introvert who enjoys good books, sunshine, and authentic conversation. Often seen with a steaming mug of tea in hand – unless it’s lost yet again in the microwave. Read more »