Don’t Forget the Mistletoe

Regardless of what time of year it is, all busy times have one thing in common…they’re all busy. And yet, when it comes to Christmas, busy reaches a whole new level. Between parties you attend and parties you host, keeping the house in normal order with a tree in your family room and lights around your windows, managing the house while buying lots of presents, it’s a wonder more people don’t actually lose their heads.

After all, busy people get tired. Busy people get to bed late. And really busy people get up early. As a result, during these busy times, intimacy can be put on hold. Yet, during these busy times, it is important to be intentional about intimacy.

There may be times in your marriage when intimacy flows naturally and unhindered. However, for many people, busy times ruin it…and busy times grow more and more prevalent. If we lose intentionality with intimacy and rely upon the natural flow, many times we lose intimacy altogether.

You’ve probably not forgotten the Christmas tree, the lights or the garland. So don’t forget the mistletoe. As you do, here’s a couple things to keep in mind:

- Don’t make it all about the bedroom: Great intimacy may end in the bedroom, but it doesn’t often start there. While you’re sitting side by side or across from each other wrapping presents or making Christmas cookies, take some time to reminisce. Talk of your first Christmas together, fun family memories. If you’re brave and it’s appropriate, talk about Christmas nightmares that are funny now.

- Don’t forget the bedroom: Do make sure that your intimacy doesn’t always end with reminiscing. Make the bedroom a priority during busy seasons…maybe even especially during busy seasons. This may mean taking a half-time break in wrapping presents to be sure the hour is reasonable.

- Be playful…it’s the most wonderful time of year: Essentially, put mistletoe generously around the house. Have fun with notes, looks, gestures, turns of phrases, pinches, kisses, etc.

- Be creative: Consider a tradition as a couple…even if for the first time. Read a Christmas book to each other. Listen to a Christmas CD while snuggling in front of a fire or under a blanket. Read Luke 1 and 2 to each other. How about starting the annual Christmas massage on back to back nights?

You’ve remembered to celebrate Christmas with your parents, with your children, with your friends, and with your coworkers. Don’t forget to celebrate Christmas with your spouse. And, as you turn your attention to celebrating your spouse at Christmas, don’t forget the mistletoe. I trust you won’t regret it.