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I'm Shay! I’m a cookbook author, lifestyle blogger, travel agency owner, wife and mama who loves making every day special for my family.

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Mix & Match Mama

Shay ·

November & December Goals


Well, it’s November 10 and I thought I’d share a few things on my to-do list for the next two months.  My favorite part about these posts are the ideas you ladies share with me!  I have received the BEST ideas over the last year doing this from YOU.  
Since it’s the busy holiday season, I decided to combine my goals for both November and December…because let’s face it, things are kind of a blur between now and the end of the year, so I thought it best to make it one big effort for both months.
But first, October…
Well, October started off strong but then pretty much came to a halt after Ashby’s surgery.  I did okay…but I could have done better.
1. Write notes of encouragement: This is something I plan on doing throughout 2016 too.  I was able to write a handful of notes (I wish I would have written more though!).  I’m really going to try and write 10 a month for the next year.  I know how much I appreciate an actual note in the mail, so I should do better at sending them too.
2. Have “special nights” each week: We did our best considering baseball season through us for a loop during the week. Between dance and baseball at night, our nights were later than normal to begin with…so, we were not consistent with our special nights.  Gotta work on that!
3. Watch extra kids:  Fail. I don’t count the Slaughter kids in this because we both watch each other’s kids all the time…but as for me watching other kids…I did not.  #goalfail
4. Have another skin check: Yes!  I did!  I hope you’re having your skin checked too!  I am a HUGE proponent of skin checks.  Skin cancer is a nasty beast that I want nothing to do with.  Have your skin checked!!
5. Pray more for others: You know, our month was wacky and even though I was out of my routine a lot, I still tried to find time to pray for your requests.  Going through and reading your comments and praying for you makes my heart happy and sad all at the same time. 
 I’m sad for so many of you who are going through such hard times.  My heart just breaks.  I’m happy though because I’m honored that you trust me enough to share your prayer requests with me (and my other readers) and you know that we are praying for you.  So many of you emailed me this month and told me you are praying for these requests too.   I just couldn’t be more proud to be a part of a community of online readers that lift each other up in prayer.  I’m still praying!  If you have a prayer request, feel free to leave a comment under that post.  I promise you, it will be prayed over.
So that was October…now…

I jotted down a few little goals for the remainder of this month and next.  Here’s the bottom line though…I just want to stay sane.  I want to enjoy every minute of this season with my kids.  I want to be under-committed, rested, healthy, and focused on the reason for the season.  I don’t want my days to go by in a blur.  I don’t want to say repeatedly how “busy” I am.  I don’t want to be busy.  I want to be present.  I would love your suggestions, tips, ideas and tricks for how you stay sane and present during the holiday season.  Please, please, please share in the comment section!  I want to sit down and read a book by the fire and drink coffee some days…I do not want to be running from thing to thing like a mad woman who committed to 100 too many things.  I want peace this Christmas season.
1. Finish shopping and wrap everything by December 1: I know…this goal isn’t unique, but it’s something I needed to write down on paper.  My shopping is going well…I just want it finished and everything wrapped up by the end of this month.  Last minute, frantic shopping isn’t good for my wallet or my sanity.
2. Make homemade gifts with my kids: This year, instead of buying little gifts for neighbors, teachers and such, I want to make stuff with my kiddos.  Not only will they like the craftiness involved, I think they’ll appreciate the hard work too.  I’m open to suggestions on what to make :).
3. Make room for new stuff: Oh boy, oh boy!  Any time my kids have a birthday or it’s Christmas, I like to clean out, donate and make room for the new.  When the new is coming in, some of the old, never played with, outgrown stuff needs to leave.  Plus, I like it when my kids help me donate stuff…I really think that’s a valuable lesson for them to learn at an early age.
4. Walk more: I was asked a lot last month (after my Day in the Life post) about my workout schedule during this season.  Listen, in a perfect world, I would hit my favorite class at the gym on Mondays and Wednesdays and then workout at home on Fridays…but it’s not perfect and I’m a busy mama, so during the fall and Christmas season, I just can’t always do that.  That being said, I really want to commit to walking more especially on the days when I can’t make it to the gym.  I just need to make sure I’m moving this month.  
5. Say “no” more often: This is what I need to focus on a lot this month!  I need to say no, no, no more.  ‘Tis the season for everyone to try and commit you to things…and I just don’t think I want to do that this year.  I don’t want to be busy…I want to really give my 100% to the things I do commit to and then pass on the rest of it.  I don’t know about you…but I don’t want to be frantic this holiday season.  No, no, no…I’m going to repeat that to myself a lot.
6. Focus on the reason: Jesus is the reason for the season.  I need to keep my eyes on the Lord.  I need to keep my kids’ eyes on the Lord. I need to remember the reason for this special season.

So, that’s it!  What are you guys doing to stay sane this holiday season?  What do you do to make sure you’re not a frazzled, over-committed mess?  I would love to hear your ideas/tips/suggestions!  Please comment below!  Let’s not be busy friends…let’s just be happy and enjoy every second of this sweet season.
Speaking of things that are sweet this season…
…my Rustic Apple Cranberry Pie is just what you need to make this Thanksgiving or Christmas.  Not only is it full of flavor and oh so yummy…but it’s so simple too!
Click here for the recipe.
Annnnnnnnnnd…
…the winner of my BIG $250 Nordstrom giveaway is…
RYAN YEAGER!
Congratulations Ryan!
You not only won a gift card for yourself but you won a second $250 Nordstrom gift card for a friend too!  Eeks!
I emailed you this morning!  You have 48 hours to email me back and claim your prize.
You didn’t win?  Have no worries…another $250 Nordstrom gift card is being given out THIS FRIDAY!
Tomorrow, all things cozy :).
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Comments

  2. kelly says

    I am with you on this, Sista! I'm trying to slow down for the Christmas season too by implementing some of your idea of decorating early. Also, I forgot that you try to have everything bought and wrapped by Dec.1. I'll strive for that one too. #won'thappen
    Thanks for reminding us to try to focus on the real meaning of Christmas !

  3. Sarah Kuykendall says

    I feel like people use being busy as a badge of honor. I really love that you are committed to saying no more often. A truely relaxing weekend is so rare, but I need it more often. Thank you for the hint!

  4. Krista says

    Your words are so encouraging! Your November and December goals are on point. I too, would love to be more present this season. God is certainly spreading his love through you. Keep it up, sister 🙂 And yay for Jesus is the reason for the season!

  5. Shannon Gray says

    Yes, yes, and YES! So many ways I love this post. I would love to know about the crafts to do with the kids for neighbors and friends. Easy one's, please. Martha Stewart, I am not! Thank you for this beautiful write up today…exactly what I needed.

  7. Amy says

    I am with you, I have all my gifts bought and wrapped before December. I want my month to focus on the holidays! We always have a Happy Birthday Jesus party with the little ones. We invite neighborhood kids over to read the story of Jesus birth, make a nativity craft, and have a special birthday cake for Jesus. We also keep it very simple! We order everything from oriental trading–the craft, decorations, plates, etc.. The kids also bring an unwrapped gift to donate to a local charity. It is the sweetest thing to see the excitement taken off Santa and to celebrate Jesus birthday away from the church setting. Last year the kids talked about going to more birthday parties for Jesus then Christmas parties 🙂

  8. beaner says

    I look forward to hearing suggestions on staying sane. We just had the busiest September and October and this past weekend was the first time we were able to stay home and let the kids play, just be kids! It was wonderful. I am hoping for more of that!

  11. Linsley Schneider says

    I love this post and the goals for the holiday season! I am almost done with my shopping, but would love to get it all wrapped by Dec. 1 so that I can keep my family's eyes on what the holidays are all about. Thanks for the inspiration to get it done!

  12. Elizabeth says

    Being in the present and not crazy busy is so hard this time of year!! If I can get that down before my baby gets here I'll be one happy camper! ☺️
    As far as homemade gifts…one thing you could do is little recipes in mason jars…. You put in all the dry ingredients- in little layers and attach a recipe card that the kids can decorate!

  13. Lisa Nortman says

    Great goals! As the mama to two young teachers I have one suggestion for gifts….consumables! They come home grateful but loaded down with knick knacks they don't know what to do with. A $5 gift card for a favorite coffee or sandwich is a treat for a teacher. A decorated box or basket filled with the teachers favorite candies, mints, gum is a favorite gift. They love having a stash in their desk for "emergencies"! And a handwritten note from a student is a treasure for years to come!

  14. Melissa says

    Several years ago I realized I was one of those people who was so "busy" during December I didn't really enjoy the season. SO….that came to a screeching halt! My solution was to type out 8-10 activities and put them on the side of the fridge. They are our most favorite family traditions (ex: making OCC boxes, driving around to see lights, making a gingerbread house, reading the Christmas story aloud, watching Elf, etc.). If it's not on that list, it doesn't get done. That way, I make sure we accomplish all of our favorite activities while leaving open space for something extra. That, along with only buying 1 gift and stocking stuffers per child, has changed our Christmas season. I know your Christmas will be extra merry with THREE kiddos this year!

  15. Caty Roberts says

    If you use essential oils, you can make a lavender sugar scrub and put them in little mason jars. My son made them with me last year for his teachers and loved doing it!!!

  16. Mother Henn says

    Couldn't agree with you and your goals more!
    As for homemade gifts, one year my girls and I made crock pot apple butter and canned it in small jars for teacher/neighbor/thinking of you gifts. We made 2 batches, but one would have been plenty. Everyone did something…..whether it was peeling apples or pouring in pre-measured spices, all ages participated in making it. We put labels on the jars and even included some fancy bread or a pretty spreader with some of the gifts. It was so good and we had numerous requests for more. I can't remember the exact recipe, but it's simple and I'm sure you can google crock pot apple butter and find one that suits your taste.

  17. Lorraine says

    One of my goals this year is to do an advent family worship three times a week. Do any of you guys have a recommendation for an advent series for kids? Mine are four and two. Thanks!

    • Ali says

      I've heard great things about Truth in the Tinsel. I haven't done it before but will be trying it this year. Mine are also four and (almost) two!

  18. Beth says

    We use this book by Ann Voskamp as a family devotional to keep our minds focused on the reason for the season. "Unwrapping the Greatest Gift: A Family Celebration of Christmas"

  19. Rachel says

    Can you please pray for the men and women of the 461st Eng. Co? My husband has been with this Army Reserve unit for over 18 years. They will be deploying to the Middle East in April of 2016. Please pray for all our men and women in the Armed Forces. Tomorrow is Veteran's Day and they deserve to be honored, remembered and thanked. If you are any of your readers would be willing to donate, we are raising money for a military ball in January. We want to have one last event for the soldiers and their significant others to be together and celebrate life before the deployment separates them from their loved ones. Here is the link if anyone is interested – https://www.gofundme.com/461stEnCo

    • Sara Fehrenbacher says

      My brother is a veteran, and I know how tough those deployments can be on spouses, children, and families. My prayers are with your husband, his unit, and all of the families for a successful deployment, safe return of all the soldiers, and an easy adjustment for their families while their soldiers are gone. I am thankful for your husband's (and your family's) sacrifice and his service. Godspeed!

  20. ClintandGina says

    Your monthly goals inspired me to read a Christian book and fun fiction book every month. I love to read, but had gotten out of the habit with a six year old and three year old. I reviewed You're going to Be Okay by Holley Gerth on my blog yesterday and you would love it!

  21. Spencer Cox says

    One of my favorite things that I have started doing with my girlfriends is a cookie party! It's so fun to host – you just have all the major ingredients for cookies (i.e. flour, butter, sugar, etc.) and everyone brings their own favorite Christmas cookie recipes! You can drink wine and bake all afternoon/evening long 🙂 Then when it's time to go home, I have little cookie boxes (you can get them from Hobby Lobby) so that everyone can take a variety of cookies home with them. You could even deliver these out to homeless shelters or other charities! I love this idea because it's a cozy, fun way to stay at home AND spend time with friends and family… all the while making some delicious cookies!

    • Kerry Dorman says

      We do a cookie party for all the kids in our family and closest friends too. It gives them memories… and those are gifts that you can put a price on. I'll have to incorporate the cookie boxes into ours this year, we usually do baggies.

  22. Melanie says

    I don't have any stay sane suggestions…but gift buying stresses me out so I'm getting a good start on it this year and I hope to reach that Dec. 1 goal myself! How great will that be?!?!? I want to be present and happy when we partake in our traditions and not be worried about running around getting stuff done. And most importantly, I was saved in January, as was my daughter, and I'm really looking forward to focusing on the reason for the season and growing in my faith.

  23. Alicia Marie says

    Our goal for Nov/December is to finalize our adoption agency and apply…get this ball rolling! Get our hearts, head and finances ready for this next step…which seems like the best reminder of what Christmas is really about! That is our prayer request and goal all wrapped into one!

  24. Leigh Clark says

    Your goals are great – I would imagine finishing with shopping by December 1st will help December to feel less hectic. And your kids will enjoy all the wonderful memories you make, busy or not!

  25. Maryann says

    We wrap books in wrapping paper like little presents and my daughter gets to open 1 each night and we read it before bed with hot cocoa and a blanket starting December 1st all the way up to Christmas Eve. It sometimes is the best 10-15 minutes of our day! And she gets so excited to open a "present" everyday. The books can be goodwill books, new books or books she hasn't read in a while!

  26. Ashley G says

    I love your goal posts. Every month, after reading your goals, I always tell myself I'm going to write mine but I never do. I think creating my goals will be my number one goal this month. Ha 🙂

  27. Lisa Longoria says

    I really appreciate this post. I was feeling like a big failing mom last night when I turned on Netflix for my son. I hit my devotional and found my energy again to spend quality time with him, without Thomas and Friends. Your post reminds me that it's ok to have those moments and keep Him in focus especially this time of year. We all need to pray for each other to find rest and energy. I too am an adoptive mom–I love your posts about Ashby. Adoption is amazing. Sending love and light from Southern California.

  30. Scavenger Hunt Blog says

    My kids always make family handmade gifts for christmas. One year my daughter made fleece scarves another year any and everything out of duct tape. But my favorite thing they have made was salt dough initials. They just cut out everyone's initials out, we cooked them then water colored them. HUGE hit!!! and super simple. We even made them for the kids class'. This year we are making tie blankets for cousins….

  31. Farryn says

    How do you find time to sit by the fire and read? I have an almost 5 month old and find this idea nearly impossible! Suggestions for more relaxation would be greatly appreciated! I love the idea of being more present and less busy.

    • Leslie Nuno says

      I don't think I ever had much time to read when my babies were little and I assumed life would just be more and more busy the older they got but once your baby is a bit older you will find that it's easier to have a routine and a little more down time! Yay!

  32. Sara Fehrenbacher says

    I'm with you! I have most of my shopping done already, and I'm hoping to finish up from my couch on Black Friday. What did we ever do before online shopping??

    As far as homemade gifts go, I really love doing cookie mix jars. Have you ever done this? It’s just a big mason Jar that you fill with measured out cookie ingredients, and you attach a little note with instructions and let them know if they need to add milk or eggs or anything. But basically you just layer the flour, sugar, brown sugar, chocolate chips, mini m&ms (or whatever you choose) and put a pretty Christmas ribbon around it and give the gift of cookie mix! It’s fun to receive because it's not baked yet, so their teachers or your neighbors don't have to hurry and eat a dozen cookies before they get stale… and it’s also nice because you have already pre-measured the ingredients for them, so they just dump it in a bowl, and milk or eggs, and pop the cookies in the oven when they're ready! It’s fun for your kiddos because they can choose what kind of ingredients go inside and help you measure them all out. You can also do this with homemade brownie mix and add nuts, or Andes mint pieces to make them unique!

    I also love the idea of decorating coffee mugs! Buy some plain coffee mugs and some good, permanent markers. Let your kiddos draw a Christmas Tree or something fun to decorate the mugs for their teachers, and then give some yummy coffee or hot cocoa to go with, or even a Starbucks Gift Card!

    Those are 2 of my fav homemade gift ideas and I love to both make and receive!

  33. dresselfamily.blogspot.com says

    I love your goals.. I'm going to say no to everything after Dec 3rd.. since I already Saud yes to organizing our church dinner for 200 people.. lol

    I have the best teacher /neighbour gift that kuds can help with.. I'm gonna shoot it to u on pinterest !!

  34. Olivia says

    When you asked for comments, I was going to suggest saying "no" to things, but then you covered that 🙂 I started saying No to a lot of things lately and trying not to feel guilt from it. It stings at first (I'm a people pleaser), but my life is better for it. The people who suffer from me overdoing are my hubby, my kids, and my health…3 of the most important things in my life.

    I think the homemade gifts are a good idea…saves money and allows the kids to be involved. I plan on having my 4 yr old fill out a questionnaire (I'd write obviously) about their teachers (what they like about them/class and such) as the "card" we give them. As an ex-teacher, I loved these kinds of things!

  36. brianna says

    Hi Shay! We have done hand print/ foot print plates for grandparents before ie: missletoes etc. What about the mason jar cookie kits or sharpie cocoa mugs with hot chocolate packs in them? I think thats what we are doing this year for teachers bus drivers etc. ALSO, I just ordered Me Before You and After You yesterday. I am so excited to read them.

  38. Haley Southey says

    My goal is to just get some goals down!! It's been so busy, I haven't had time to rest and get some goals on paper and really evaluate how I can be intentional these next couple of months. SO ready for the holiday season and for some family and quiet time!

  39. Hayley Schneider says

    We make sugar scrub for my girl's teachers each December! It's only sugar and coconut oil (a couple drops of of an essential oil if you want) and put them in cute jelly jars:) you can find sugar scrub recipes online!

  40. Hayley Schneider says

    We make sugar scrub for my girl's teachers each December! It's only sugar and coconut oil (a couple drops of of an essential oil if you want) and put them in cute jelly jars:) you can find sugar scrub recipes online!

  42. AMla says

    I love that you are wanting to make homemade gifts with your children. As a teacher, I appreciate the gifts that come from the heart the most. Homemade cookies, treats etc. are the best and one year I had a student make a stack of hand stamped cards!

  43. Megan says

    Love your goal of saying no and not getting too busy! It's the perfect time if year to slow down and reflect. And I need to book a skin check!!! Thanks for the reminder.

  45. Melissa D. says

    Great list! Mine looks similar! 🙂 My sanity around this time of year is lessened by getting things done early, which you already do! My goals are the same though…time to read in front of my pretty tree, is one!
    As for gifts, I made this Homemade Fudge Sauce recently and I can't tell you how amazing it was. It is entirely possible that I didn't even bother to warm it 99.9% of the time and just had a little spoonful (until it was gone)! I plan to make a big batch, put in mason jars and give as gifts for carpool, neighbors, etc.
    http://www.letsdishrecipes.com/2010/06/chocolate-fudge-sauce.html
    Enjoy the season Shay!

  48. Camille says

    We live around both of our families so our December can get crazy and then I get grumpy 🙂 So, here is what I do. Order and and address my Christmas in October. Shop and wrap in November. This year, because we aren't home very much in December, I am doing what I said I would never do….decorate before Thanksgiving. I want to enjoy my home and it seems like they are up and back down before I know it. I also keep my decorations really simple but beautiful…the tree, stockings and the nativity. Probably my biggest sanity tradition is to block off the first Saturday and the second Friday for just our little family. That way, we are able to make traditions for our kids since all the other weekends are filled with extended family traditions.
    Thank you for your wonderful and uplifting blog!

  49. Angela says

    Great ideas! I LOVED reading Lysa Terkerst's book "The Best Yes" this summer! I tend to say "yes" to way to much & therefore overcommitting myself, my kids & my family. Anyways, Lysa does a beautiful job of teaching & encouraging you to say "no" with biblical principles!

  50. Katie Shira says

    My homemade Christmas gifts this year for neighbors, friends and family are little 4oz jars of homemade vanilla extract! I started making them in August because they have to marinate for several months. Might be something to think about for next year! It's super easy. Vanilla beans, vodka and a cute glass jar. I made personalized stickers for them. I'm so giddy to give them out!

  53. Grace Ruedi says

    Make homemade candles and put them in old tea cups from a thrift store or unique jars. People love them!

  54. Melody says

    Definitely agree with not being busy! I took my daughter to several activities last year for fun and she was so tired from them she wasn't really having fun. Sometimes kids just want to be at home in their room playing! Love all your goals and keeping Jesus the reason for the season!

  57. Lauren Honeycutt says

    Thank you SO much for putting out the word about getting skin checked! I just got my checked, had a questionable skin tag removed (totally benign) and have two moles that are benign now but we'll be tracking em! Skin cancer is so easily overlooked, but it's so dangerous!

    Thank you again!

    Lauren 🙂
    ohheyilikethat.blogspot.com

  58. BGH says

    Check out girlwithblog.com She just finished writing in October a post a day about a less stress holiday season!! Also I'm almost finished reading The Best Yes by Lysa Terkeurst and it is all about saying yes to the best things in life and learning how to say no. I've really enjoyed it. You might too!

  59. The Lovely One says

    Teacher gift idea: My kids made books for the teachers last year and they were a huge hit. The front of the book said "What will Miss Smith do during Christmas break?" and each page had a picture drawn by my son or daughter, along with a gift card. The pictures and the captions were: read a book (barnes and noble), go out for ice cream (baskin robbins), work around the house (Lowe's), go shopping (Target), go out for dinner (local restaurant), and go on a road trip (gas card). Both teachers loved these books, and I thought it was a really original and creative gift for the teachers!

  60. Jeremy and Allison says

    I've been back to work for 2 months after taking a few years off to be a SAHM, and I'm seriously stressed about the holidays. I feel like I have no time to get my shopping done, and relaxing is out of the question. Serenity now!! I'm channeling Frank Constanza because I get him!

  62. Kim in RI says

    I think you are already on the right track with saying no, no, no! We always feel crazy busy and frantic from November through December and it gets in the way of enjoying the moments. Especially with littles. My kids are older now but we make an effort to spend time together – take a short trip or just a few lazy days at home. The last few years we have skipped the presents and spent the money on going away somewhere for a few days. Making memories is what it is all about and we are all better for it.

  64. Melissa H. says

    When our children were growing up, we did an advent wreath (my husband and I still do this) and lit the candles every night, read some Bible verses and made it special. You start about four weeks before Christmas and get the five candles which each represent something different. There are even books that have simple devotions and stories for young children. We did this most nights for just a few minutes. You can adapt it to your schedule. This has been a great way for our family to remember the true meaning of Christmas.

  65. Samantha Miller says

    Hi Shay! I love your goals list each month. I just found an advent study on womenlivingwell.org that you might be interested in. It has a study for adults and additional resources for children aimed at "quieting hearts for the holidays" with scripture to memorize and cute activities. My boys are older, but I think we are gonna try it at our house this year to try to "hush" the hectic-ness of the season and remember the true reason we celebrate. Blessings!

  68. Allison Balow says

    I love that you involve your kids in donating things they no longer use. I did just want to say that my 6 year old niece (the girl who has everything) just had a birthday. In lieu of gifts this year she decided to ask for donations for kids with cancer. It was very sweet and I have a feeling your kiddos would take to this idea as well! Best wishes!

  69. mallory says

    Love your goal to say "no" more – as this is something I try to do as well! Have you read The Best Yes by Lysa TerKeurst? Currently reading it now and love how it focuses on finding the best "yes" in a life full of lots of demands. 🙂

  70. Jennifer Bell says

    Maybe this will help with your notes of encouragement. . .each year as the Christmas cards come in, we post them somewhere prominent. In January, I take them down and put them in a basket in the dining room. The idea is that we will, as a family, draw a card or two each Sunday and pray for that family during the week and write to them and let them know we are praying for them. I am *so* bad about making this a habit!! We get going. . .then "life" happens. . .and we slack. . .but it's an idea that maybe someone else might be better about!

  71. Jennifer Bell says

    Homemade gifts. . .(I haven't read through all the posts so it may have been mentioned). . .one year when mine were all still in elementary school, I bought small clay pots for each teacher they had. The kids painted them. I then wrapped pens with floral tape and added a flower at the top. We filled the pots with beans and added 4-5 "flowers". I thought it was fun to do and it was neat to go into the school to sub or volunteer and see their little clay pots on the desks with pens at the teacher's fingertips 🙂

  73. Carrie S says

    This year I am thinking about making flavored butters for teacher / daycare lady gifts! I love making garlic butter or honey nut butter. You could have a lot of fun making different flavors of butter (and Pinterest is full of different ideas!). I plan to put them in little mason jars, let my son decorate the labels and then include a Christmas themed butter knife. Can't wait to hear what you decide to make!!!