'Twas The Week Before Christmas

'Twas the week before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was hurrying, not even the mouse.
The festivities have been chosen with intention and care,
So that even this mama could get out for some air.

Expectations were lowered; it's clear in her head,
That simpler traditions require less meds!
This mama, in her wisdom, has built in a gap
Into her daily schedule to enjoy a quick nap.

Where once there was hurry and stress and commotion,
She began to take stock of her own real emotion.
She noticed her crabby and downright bad mood,
Which at first she would blame on her kids' attitude!

Enough was enough with all of the fluff,
Time to pare down and sort out all this stuff!
Gift exchanges and parties and neighbor treats too,
Can make this last month feel more like the zoo!

With a few well-asked questions, she took this huge chore,
And turned it around to make her heart soar!
"Why do I do this, and who's it really for?"
"What value, what sacrifice, will this cost at its core?"

"Could it be done simpler, be honest with yourself,
Do you really need that Elf on the Shelf?"
Because how will you feel, and how will you deal,
When you wind up so sick from way too much zeal?

The joy of this season was meant for you too.
That tradition ain't worth it if you feel like hot poo.
So learn from this mama, who wore busy like an honor,
But with some real work, made that mindset a goner.

'Cause it really comes down to how you will choose
To cut back and take back; you simply can't lose.
And off in the distance, was heard joy and elation,
For each Christmas time is a real celebration,

A time to remodel and live out our lives,
In a way that is sane; remember, "Be wise!"