Midwest Mary

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By

Mary K. Doyle

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Juggling Holiday Preparations

Baking, wrapping, visiting, baking, cooking, appointments, celebrating—and did I say, “Baking?”  I was feeling overwhelmed when I remembered I am allowed to step away from the laptop from time to time, and that is what I plan on doing for most of this month.

My online presence will be sporadic for most of December. I promise to catch up with all my fellow bloggers’ posts before the new year. I’ll also post periodically, as well as respond to comments. In the meantime, be well and happy, my friends. I’m holding you all close in prayer.

©2024, Mary K. Doyle

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Responses to “Juggling Holiday Preparations”

  1. Dorothy’s New Vintage Kitchen

    Don’t forget to breathe!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Ah, thank you, my friend.

      Reply
  2. lbeth1950

    Have a wonderful time.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Beth. Have a fabulous holiday season.

      Reply
  3. Ernie ‘Dawg’

    Have a holly jolly Christmas and see ya on the back side!!!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      I’ll check in periodically, Ernie. And I’m planning to be back in swing in January. All the best to you!

      Reply
      1. Ernie ‘Dawg’

        Be safe and have a joyous holiday Mary. 🙏🎄🎅

        Reply
  4. kagould17

    Happy prepping Mary. We are not even sure if “We’ll Be Home for Christmas” yet as visit an invalid parent. After that, we will still have the dicey drive back across the mountains to home. Fingers crossed all works out. That being said, we had a family celebration of birthdays and Christmases in November while we were all together. May you be surrounded by the joy and laughter of friends and family this Christmas. Allan

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Please, drive carefully, Allan. Merry Christmas, my friend.

      Reply
  5. Looking for the Light

    Enjoy!!!! Savory every minute.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, dear Melinda.

      Reply
  6. A seeker✨

    Take all the time you need! Your well-being is more important than your online presence. Sending you love, peace, and happy holidays!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you for your kindness and understanding. I appreciate you!

      Reply
      1. A seeker✨

        Your welcome ☺️

        Reply
  7. Pooja G

    Yes, it’s totally okay to take breaks when life gets busy and you can’t be as active online anymore. Have a wonderful holiday season.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Pooja. I’ve learned from you and others that this is possible and necessary. Hugs, my friend.

      Reply
      1. Pooja G

        You’re welcome and that’s great, yes breaks are necessary sometimes. Hugs.

        Reply
  8. gustavo_horta

    Felicidade. Sempre.
    Aproveite seu tempo sabático.
    Abraços

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Gustavo. I appreciate your support and kindness. I will do my best to read your posts. Blessings to you, my friend.

      Reply
  9. macalder02

    December is the busiest month of the year due to the countless commitments to fulfill. May your month be the best and may it go as planned.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you. I know I can’t do everything, so it’s about priorities and enjoying every day. Thank you for commenting. I truly appreciate you taking the time to read and comment. Blessings to you.

      Reply
      1. macalder02

        I just enjoy reading your blog. Rather, thank you for writing so well Mary.

        Reply
        1. Mary K. Doyle

          I’m humbled by your words. Thank you.

          Reply
          1. macalder02

            You are welcome Mary,

  10. Escribir Y Sanar

    Happy Holidays 🎄🎶🤍

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, and Happy Holidays to you!

      Reply
  11. KC

    Be well and happy, Mary. 🙏

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, KC. I appreciate your kindness. All the best to you.

      Reply
  12. Thobile Simelane

    Mary, Take care of yourself and enjoy the holiday season! It’s great that you’re setting boundaries and prioritizing. Sending you love, peace and all the festive feels.🌸♥️

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Thobile, and the same to you. Love and peace, sweet Lady.

      Reply
      1. Thobile Simelane

        That’s beautiful thank you so much my friend 😊

        Reply
  13. Cindy Georgakas

    oh how do I know so well. Good luck… i too am racing the clock. we know who wins there
    😂🧑🏼‍🎄

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      How often have we gone to bed on Christmas evening and counted all the things we didn’t do? We just do what we can, right, Girlfriend? Love you!

      Reply
  14. hubertprevy

    Mary, enjoy every minute of the Christmas spirit! 😊🎄🎁✨️🏖

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Hubert. You too, my friend.

      Reply
  15. Rosaliene Bacchus

    Enjoy the preparations!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Rosaliene. I do enjoy all the cooking and baking, but I get tired. I used to be able to do everything. Not so much anymore. Love to you.

      Reply
      1. Rosaliene Bacchus

        Same here, Mary. My sons now do all the cooking 🙂 Love to you, too ❤

        Reply
  16. PradP

    Have a nice time Mary,Enjoy to the fullest…..🫶❤❤

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Prad. I realized I can’t do everything! Love to you.

      Reply
  17. philsblog01

    Thanks so much Mary! Sending Best Wishes your way!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Phil!

      Reply
  18. Dawna

    Mary, I love your Santa. He’s beautiful.

    I am happy to hear you are taking time to take care of you and your baking needs. Christmas is supposed to be a magical time of year and not one where we feel overwhelmed, though I’m one to talk. Anyway, step away and take care of your to do’s and enjoy the moments that come with the list of things you need to complete. Put on some Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree and immerse yourself in the season.

    Hugs to you and I look forward to your sporadic posts and check in’.

    Lots of love to you and your family my dearest friend. Love ya.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Exactly, Queen of Holidays! It all has to be enjoyable. I bought the Santa at Hobby Lobby. He is beautiful, isn’t he? Love you!

      Reply
      1. Dawna

        Oh gosh, Hobby Lobby is my weak spot. They have so many wonderfully amazing Christmas decorations. Your Santa really is beautiful.

        Love you too friend. Enjoy your evening and Happy Baking.

        Reply
  19. Nancy Homlitas

    Thank you, Mary! May God bless you with a joyous month that culminates in the celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. 🙂

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Happy, Holy Holidays to you, Nancy. Merriest of Christmases to you, my friend.

      Reply
      1. Nancy Homlitas

        Thanks! 🙂

        Reply
  20. Michele Lee

    Enjoy dear Mary and may the season bring you abundant joy, peace, and love. ✨ P.S. Your book arrived. Yay! Will make a lovely gift! 🙏🏻🎁

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Michele. I ordered your books, as well. But I’m reading them before passing them on! Merry Christmas, dear Michele.

      Reply
      1. Michele Lee

        Thank you, Mary! So very kind of you! A sweet surprise to receive this evening. Which did you order? I am definitely reading yours, too. A lovely read and beautiful gift. A very merry Christmas to you! 🎄

        Reply
        1. Mary K. Doyle

          I ordered Her Coastal Cottage and Honeysuckle Heat. It may take me a few weeks to get to these books but I’m looking forward to settling down with them, Michele. I’m sure they will be wonderful.

          Reply
          1. Michele Lee

            I am so excited! I hope you enjoy them. Your feedback will be greatly appreciated whenever the reading time lines up for you. Thank you.

          2. Mary K. Doyle

            Which one should I read first?

          3. Michele Lee

            Thanks so much for asking! They are stand-alone stories with distinct characters; however, I suggest HH first then CC. Your question gave me a lot to consider. I really appreciate that! 🙏🏻🙏🏻

  21. Kym Gordon Moore

    Awwww Betty Crocker…👩🏼‍🍳👨🏼‍🍳👩🏼‍🍳…look at you my Domestic Goddess! 🍞🥧🥐 Tis the season to be stoned out of your mind, but girlfriend, you got this! 👍🏼 Life can’t be all work and no play! Cheers to you my sweet dear and enjoy your preparation for one of your merriest Christmas’ ever! Love, hugs and smooches my dear. 🥰💖😘

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      LOL. I sure do love you, Kym!

      Reply
      1. Kym Gordon Moore

        Awwww my sweet Mary! What a jewel you are my dear! 💎🙆🏻‍♀️💎

        Reply
  22. mistermaxxx08

    The best to you, soulful wishes always

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Mister Maxxx. And you know that I wish the same for you, my friend.

      Reply
      1. mistermaxxx08

        All the best

        Reply
  23. mamamorozov

    Enjoy your holiday!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you. I hope you enjoy, as always.

      Reply
      1. mamamorozov

        Thank you!!

        Reply
  24. Shweta

    Hope you have a great time with your loved ones, Mary. Happy holidays!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Shweta. I know it all will be perfectly crazy and wonderful.

      Reply
  25. Stephanie

    Have a beautiful and peaceful season, Mary. We all should enjoy this time, not rush through it, and you’re setting an example. ❤ ❤ ❤

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Stephanie. I had to have realistic expectations of what I can do and what I want to do. All the best to you, my friend.

      Reply
      1. Stephanie

        You too, Mary. ❤

        Reply
  26. The Introverted Bookworm

    Dear, Mary. I hope you have a peaceful, joyous and cozy festive season. Ps: I downloaded your wonderful book, Navigating Alzheimer’s, and sent you a wee email regarding an author interview in 2025, just to let you know! Wishing you all the best from across the pond 💙🎄🎅🕊

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Wonderful, Ada. I will look for your email. May your holidays be blessed. I appreciate you, my friend.

      Reply
  27. Adarsh G

    Stay blessed and enjoy Mary 💓

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Adarsh. I will enjoy.

      Reply
      1. Adarsh G

        🌹

        Reply
  28. marvellousnightmare

    Both the post and photo are so cozy and warm ❤ I bet you baked something delicious 🙂

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Ms. Marvellous. I’m working on the baking. Hugs to you, dear one.

      Reply
  29. LaDonna Remy

    Happy Holidays, Mary. ❤️

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, LaDonna. Happiest of Holidays to you!

      Reply
  30. festo_sanjo

    Keep the holiday vibe going, my friend.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Festo. Happy Holidays to you, my friend.

      Reply
  31. Dawn Pisturino

    Happy Holidays!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      The same to you, Dawn.

      Reply
  32. Awakening Wonders

    Best wishes as you enjoy some time from blogland!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Mary. It’s always a delight to see you. I hope you are well and happy. May your holidays be perfect.

      Reply
  33. Garden Bliss

    Happy baking, Mary and Happy holidays to you.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Happiest of Holidays to you, Flavia.

      Reply
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  35. David

    Take tour time and enjoy the holidays! Baking is a wonderful occupation when you need to breathe and pace yourself.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, David. May all your days be joyful.

      Reply
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  37. noga noga

    ❤The picture is wonderful. Thank you for sharing. My best wishes and prayers to you, Mary, my love

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Nougat.

      Reply
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  39. SiriusSea

    Baking 🙂 !!! I bet your house smells like heaven, Mary ❤ ~ Enjoy your Holidays and savor every morsel, and May God watch over you and yours gloriously and forever !!!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Ms. Siri. So much love to you.

      Reply
  40. Hazel

    Have a joyful Christmas, Mary.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Hazel. All the best to you.

      Reply
  41. restlessjo

    It’s a time when we try to go in too many directions, Mary. Thanks for finding the time to visit mine, and be sure and enjoy the rest of December.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Jo. May your holiday celebrations be perfect. Hugs to you.

      Reply
  42. johnlmalone

    hope all the preparations go well, Mary; I know my daughter is very busy with her daughter’s help organizing the whole Xmas dinner thing —

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      My little family dinner is today at my house. After this, it’s just bringing things to other family members’ homes. All the best to you, John.

      Reply
      1. johnlmalone

        thanks Mary: that sounds a great plan; all the best to you too 🙂

        Reply
  43. Holy Truth

    My the lord be with you and in you guiding you always dear soul, Christ is King, Christos is Lord, Saviour and Redeemer even until the end of days, 🙏

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, and God bless you.

      Reply
  44. Cindy Georgakas

    Have the very best holiday, Mary! Sending lots of love and enjoy every little minute. It’s been a great year of sharing and support together. Enjoy your family and find respite in moments shared!! ❤️

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Cindy. The very best of holidays to you and your family, as well. I hope your hip is better.

      Reply
  45. worldphoto12

    BUONA DOMENICA

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Gracie

      Reply
  46. da-AL

    wishing you the best, too!

    Reply
  47. Maranda

    I always feel overwhelmed this time of year, even more so when dealing with depression too

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      It is no wonder you feel overwhelmed. This is why I stepped away from blogging most of the month. We can only handle so much. I have family members who do not do well in crowds, and we have a loud, large family.

      Reply
  48. spotlightchoices.com-C. Wilson

    Good thing to remember when necessary “to step away from the laptop from time to time” – best holiday wishes!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you.

      Reply
      1. spotlightchoices.com-C. Wilson

        You’re welcome!

        Reply
  49. lifewithlane14

    I was having this problem too and I stepped away. I forgot its okay to do that. I’m glad we both did. Hope you’re having a wonderful holiday season 😊

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Yes! So glad you stepped away, also, Lane. We have to care for ourselves first or unable to do much else.

      Reply
  50. Eternity

     Thanks for your like of my post,  “Christ And Pre-Kingdom Jews – Pt 3;” you are very kind.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      You’re welcome.

      Reply
      1. Eternity

        Thank you

        Reply
  51. vermavkv

    Very nice

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you.

      Reply
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