As I write this, I’m sitting by our fireplace, the kids are watching a Holiday movie starring Lindsay Lohan and we’re getting ready to put up our Christmas decorations. Which means I’ll spend the next three hours trying to untangle the lights. 

My research department (that’s me) learned that 27% of us put our decorations up BEFORE Thanksgiving. And, what does it say about you if you’re in that TWENTY-SEVEN PERCENT? 

It’s great news, so I feel the need to put it in all caps: PEOPLE WHO DECORATE FOR CHRISTMAS EARLY ARE HAPPIER AND FRIENDLIER.

That is hardcore research my friends, found in this article, which sources the Journal of Environmental Psychology. According to the article, decorations are nostalgic, bring people back to simpler and happier times, and boost dopamine. 

Putting my decorations up early is about the only thing I’ll be early for this year. I’m sending this newsletter a day later than normal — it usually goes out on Tuesdays — because I’m still recovering from a girl's trip to Arizona with some of my dear friends. How much fun did we have? Well, this picture says it all. I FELL ASLEEP AT THE DINNER TABLE, DURING OUR MEAL. 

Find yourself some friends that love you even when you fall asleep during conversation and are light-hearted enough to photograph it.  

As we count down to the holidays, I know we all want to be present: with our kids, our family, and the ones we love the most. So, I encourage you to be realistic with your expectations. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, don’t get caught up in the details and accept that you’re going to drop some balls. Keep the glass balls in the air, and let the plastic balls drop. 

Make those memories, friends. Be present. Love on your people. And, get your holiday decorations up early for an extra shot of happiness.

FARIS FAVORITES

1. What I’m Reading: Lysa TerKeurst was a guest on my podcast last month and her new book, “Good Boundaries and Goodbyes” has quickly become a best-seller. I’m giving away a few copies 

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just DM me your mailing address within the next 24 hours to be eligible. Also, if you’ve been gifted something within the last 90 days via this newsletter, please let someone else win. Love, Mom. :) One more thing: you’ve told me some of the books you’re reading include John Eldredge’s “Get Your Life Back” and “Resilient.” I’d love to hear your favorites 

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drop me a line, anytime to tell me what you’re loving these days!

2. What I'm Making for Thanksgiving: Lucky for me, we’re headed to Indianapolis to visit my in-laws, which means I don’t have to cook the whole meal. Check out this article on how to make pretty much everything ahead of time and freeze it. And, a GENIUS hack by Babs, who suggests using metal, disposable cupcake tins to take leftovers home, which then are reheated in that same container. 

3. What I’m Watching: Lindsay Lohan’s comeback! I mentioned the holiday movie my family and I watched, called “Falling For Christmas” and I recommend it! It’s the typical, predictable, feel-good Christmas movie. Buuuut, after everything Lindsay Lohan has gone through, including addictions, it feels good to cheer for someone. Photo via Harper's BAZAAR

Here's what you missed this week in The CARRY™ ALL, the weekly newsletter BY working moms, for working moms (and the Media company birthed out of my own Called Out story!)

1. A letter to the mom feeling the stress this holiday season.2. How to find a therapist when you're anxious, stressed or overwhelmed.3. Our favorite one-minute, clutter-clearing hack.

The Paula Faris 'Faith & Calling' Podcast

Episode 83 with Deb Liu 

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If you ever feel like the things that make you different are keeping you from your calling - settle in, because you're about to find a double dose of belonging and courage in this week's episode. Deb Liu, CEO of Ancestry.com and founder of Facebook Marketplace, has spent her whole life shifting gears, seeking support and keeping her faith. Deb shares her zero-regret policy to combat guilt, advice for finding clarity in the midst of a challenge, and why taking a step forward is actually taking a step back. Listen Now

Episode 82 with Kel Mitchell — What do you do when you sense a calling that you didn't see coming? If you're struggling with doubt or insecurity to make a pivot or outrun your past (and/or if you're a 90's kid who is curious what one of your favorite stars has been up to) then this episode is a must! Comedian, actor, producer, author, fun dad of four - and now, youth pastor, Kel Mitchell, joins me for an uplifting conversation that will encourage anyone needing a reminder that they are more than worthy of their calling.

Listen Now