This episode is a recast from 2022, aired at the same time of year last year. You guys loved it then, and I loved it too! It was such a fun episode to record. I just finished listening to the whole thing on a walk before I re-recorded the intro. I decided to re-air it because it's as relevant now as it was a year ago. Let's talk about what this episode is and then dive right into it. Today’s episode is a fun friend-to-friend chat about Christmas, and I am certainly bringing the Christmas ENERGY in this episode. I’m totally a “Christmas person” and I start getting excited about Christmas in July typically (not kidding). But, let’s talk about the elephant in the room…  Resting and actually taking time off for the holidays doesn’t always come easy as business owners.  There’s often a lot to do to “close out the year” and at the same time you’re ready to dream about the next year in your business, PLUS you have the everyday to do’s of life to keep up with. You also might be listening to this right after Black Friday which can be really exhausting as a business owner. Resting and slowing down can feel really hard.   That’s what we’re talking about today. I’m sharing with you:  1. My time-off and rest strategy for Christmas that I do basically every year, and how you can do this yourself as well! (We’re talking PRACTICAL planning here!)  2. Holiday bucket list ideas for you to do to strengthen your faith and enjoy the month of December, even in its chaos.  3. Tradition ideas – I was a NEW mom when this first aired, and even still I don’t have tons of traditions to share for with kiddos. But, I am sharing some traditions you could try with your spouse that we do and some family tradition ideas I love!  4. I’m sharing Advent resources, books, other podcast episodes, and things I think will help you out as you plan your own holiday season.    So, that is our agenda. This is a GOOD EPISODE, if you often tell me that you wish I did more personal content – this is it. I’m excited to chat. Go get a peppermint mocha, a sugar cookie latte, or some wine and let’s dive into it!    Lots of links mentioned today that you can find below: Get the full shownotes: https://elizabethmccravy.com/244  Shop website templates: https://elizabethmccravy.com/shop  Starting a Podcast? Learn more about Podcast Success Blueprint: https://elizabethmccravy.com/psb  Join Booked Out Designer: https://elizabethmccravy.com/bod Grab my Profit Sheet before the new year:  https://elizabethmccravy.com/profit-sheet  Not sure what template is for you? Take the quiz: https://elizabethmccravy.com/quiz  Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethmccravy/  Connect with me on my website: http://elizabethmccravy.com/  Advent Devotionals To Check Out: - The Dawning of Indestructible Joy by John Piper - Unwrapping the Names of Jesus by Asheritah Ciuciu - Come, Let Us Adore Him by Paul David Tripp  - Emmanuel: An Invitation to Prepare Him Room at Christmas and Always by Ruth Chou Simons  - Jesus Storybook Bible Advent Plan for Kids - FREE Advent Reading Plan for Really Little Kids - Risen Motherhood Advent Round Up List   Advent/Christmas Podcast Resources: - Risen Motherhood Episode #81 Celebrating Advent with Little Ones - Risen Motherhood Episode #42 Making Christmas Traditions Matter - Risen Motherhood Episode #146 Finding Rest in Advent   - Risen Motherhood Episode #177 The Most Wonderful Time of the Year - Work and Play Episode #90 Our Favorite Christmas Traditions  - Work and Play Episode #172 My Christmas Game Plan - Behind the Bliss Episode #208 An Invitation to Prepare Him Room at Christmas and Always with Ruth Chou Simons    Random Links I Mentioned: - Peppermint Mocha Nutpods   - Red Christmas Pajamas from Amazon  - Sugared Cranberries Recipe - “The Hunting Party” Book