Holiday Reset

This morning I found myself thinking “Okay… I just have to make it through this week.” 

If that doesn’t scream “Christmas Spirit” I don’t know what does.

I think this time of year, it is so easy to get caught up in the stress of doing what we feel is expected of us.  And running a business during the holidays makes things a little more complicated. How do I run a business, keep on top of the construction bills, get my end of the year taxes ready, remember to do marketing to sell Christmas merchandise  AND get my Christmas shopping and baking done, get my house cleaned and decorated for company and find time to express appreciation as we do our best to reflect on the year and those that have done so much to help us out?

Deep Breath.

My son and his fiancé are flying in today.  My kids are so excited for Christmas for two reasons… they all get to be together, and because of the gifts they are giving – not because of what they are getting.

*Happy Sigh*

We are fully staffed for the holiday season even though Aiyana (poor Aiyana) is getting her tonsils out this week.  We have cover because even though my employees leave for bigger and better things, they almost always come back during breaks.  The Atom is their home away from home.

Success.

Everything is going so very smoothly with the build.  Our contractors have met and exceeded expectations in spite of rain and cold weather.  Every step forward is a step in the right direction and the holidays haven’t slowed things in the least.

Check and mark.

Business is going well with all things considered.  We are finishing the year with 18% growth overall, and we will be on par to double that with the expansions coming next year.  We receive daily affirmations from customers and community members that are so excited for our new building and location.  Yesterday I received a sincere “Thank You for doing this for Glide,” that made my heart melt.  

#makingthingshappen

After that thought entered my head this morning, I quickly put myself in check.  This isn’t a time to rush through.  I need, instead, to focus on the moment and try to soak it in.  Things are going to be undone.  I might buy that pumpkin pie instead of making it from scratch. There may be some dust on the shelves at home, and we will most likely have to order pizza a few nights from Coho.  But my family is going to be together – because they WANT to be.  We have created traditions with family and friends – and every year the group gets a little bigger. Too often, my busy life distracts me from so many of the gifts I have.  

This Christmas, I’m going to pour myself a mimosa, pop some Nat King Cole on the record player and play some Liar’s Dice with my favorite people… knowing the world will continue next Tuesday – whether I stress about things being perfect or not.

Done and Done.

Merry Christmas!