Christmas is two weeks from today. No need to stress. Let the imminence of Christ’s birthday help you focus on what is truly important. Simplify by giving your time and efforts to what will add to your Christmas celebration. One way to do this is to keep your decorations simple and classic.

This year I have not had much time to prepare for Christmas (more about this tomorrow). But a few decorations add a spirit of warmth and celebration to our homes. Not wanting to spend time or money shopping for more decorations I used what I had. Below is the centerpiece on our dining room table. Yes, you recognize the wood slice from my fall centerpiece. It serves as a nice anchor for the evergreen and candles. The evergreen sprigs came from the bottom of our tree. Japanese boxwood or ivy would work equally as well. Yes, we have a bounty of pine cones from Kelsey’s wedding two years ago. Layering those with red ornaments makes a fun contrast—the natural with a little shiny.

The centerpiece below is on our kitchen table. Yes, it’s very similar to the dining room centerpiece. That is okay. Using what you have throughout your home keeps continuity and saves your sanity. You may recognize the black tray. I had the glasses in it on the sideboard at Thanksgiving. Don’t be afraid to disassemble what you have and try new combinations for a fresh look.

Of course, what would Christmas be without the Nativity scene! I have collected many and display them throughout the house. This one is on our mantle. I painted it when I was in junior high. It’s been a part of all thirty of our Christmases. Sometimes the oldest decorations are the best.

If you’re feeling stressed, give yourself a break. Think about what truly matters to your family and let the rest go. Let go of your expectations and others’ expectations of you. I’m sure Mary did not feel prepared for the birth of her Son in a barn, yet He came anyway. She rejoiced in and treasured the experience (Luke 2:18). Christmas will come to us as well, with or without our perfectly decorated homes. Our part is to be like Mary—with our hearts ready to celebrate and worship our Savior.

Brenda Garrison is an author and speaker who empowers women with the confidence to live their calling. Brenda is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Ministry Leadership with a Concentration in Women’s Ministry at Moody Bible Institute. She and her husband, Gene, are the parents of three young adult daughters and live near Metamora, IL.