I’m Heading to Who-ville…and Other Magical Places

The other night, Little picked How the Grinch Stole Christmas! as his bedtime story. And though I’ve read it many times before, this time a particular line really stuck with me.

And the minute his heart didn’t feel quite so tight,
He whizzed with his load through the bright morning light…

I read it, and I thought, that’s the perfect description for how I’ve been feeling this holiday season. My heart is feeling…well, tight. And it’s weighing me down (along with all the Christmas goodies, of course).

It’s not that my heart is two sizes too small. I don’t feel stingy or grumpy. I just feel like there are so many things that I want to pour my everything into—the holiday celebrations, our kids, a major house project, a community concern, this blog, and more—that it’s all too much. My heart, and my mind, are simply overflowing.

So, I’ve decided to take a bit of time away from this blog and social media. From the constant checking and editing and commenting and wondering. You see, I’m not the type of person who can just write something and walk away. I get too wrapped up in the life my writing takes on (or doesn’t) after I click “publish”.

So I’m going to walk away. Just for a week or two. Not because I don’t have anything to say—quite the opposite, really. So I’ll be back soon with big thoughts, silly observations, and meaningful moments. (I’ll also be highlighting some posts from the archives that I hope you’ll enjoy on my Facebook page while I’m offline.)

But for now? Well, I’m going to un-tighten my heart a bit. Because I believe that when I do, I, too, will whiz with my load through the bright morning light. And I’ll wear a more easy, generous smile so that everyone around me knows that I know what this season is truly all about.

Before I go, I want to sincerely thank you. Each day you bring my heart joy and help make my dream come true. Happy holidays to you and the people who make you giggle, cry happy tears, and celebrate the little moments!

Are you considering taking a digital break? Check out these 8 Ways to Unplug Your Holidays from Common Sense Media. Or browse their great lists of the best family movies and kids’ books of 2014, then cuddle up on the couch with your favorite little people to enjoy one—or three.

This post was inspired by my role as a Common Sense Media Learn ON Ambassador, I’m honored that I get the chance to share Common Sense Media’s great work. This non-partisan, not-for-profit company is helping parents everywhere navigate the new digital landscape, and even the most tech-savvy people I know turn to them for help. I hope you will too.