Halloween is over, the fall season is ending, and ready or not, here come “THE HOLIDAYS!”
What thoughts come to your mind? The Norman Rockwell Thanksgiving table scene? Or Black Friday shopping madness? The first snowflakes gently falling just in time for Christmas morning? Or parties, menus, and outfits to plan? Do you have visions of sugar plums dancing through your head? Or gift lists, greeting cards, house guest prep, and holiday decorating to tackle?
May I make a suggestion? Do a little holiday editing before the holidays even begin. Remember “Quality over Quantity,” and “Less is More.” Make a deal with yourself to edit your card & gift lists, party menus, family obligations, and holiday decorations. Of course I can’t comment on who or what to strike off your lists, but if your greeting card list has grown to over 150, maybe it’s time to edit? Would it be “Grinchy” to bake 5 dozen cookies, instead of 10? I’m willing to bet that your loved ones will appreciate more quality than quantity, especially around the crazy time-crunched holidays, and you may actually enjoy a little peace.
True story. I’ve lived in my house 10 years this month and every December, Christmas cards addressed to the previous homeowners show up in my mailbox. Some of the senders actually live in this town! Now, if they don’t know that Sue & Dan moved 10 years ago, how tight can they be? When was the last time you edited your card list?
If baking fewer cookies, and sending fewer cards seems radical, start smaller.. with your holiday decorations. (I hear you saying “OH, this is where she’s going!”) Before you hang a single strand of tinsel, or go buy one more sparkly Santa, take inventory of what you have. Look closely at each item and thoughtfully decide if it’s either a.) beautiful, or b.) has strong sentimental value. Ideally, it should be/have both. But be honest, most plastic Christmas chotchke aren’t and don’t! (I love the irony of using those two words in the same sentence) If your holiday item doesn’t meet the criteria, put it in a box, and label it “gently used” or “lost its luster” and in the spirit of the season, donate it. There are plenty of homes that will gladly take your Christmas cast-offs. You’ll feel better about making someone else’s holidays a little brighter, your home will take on a fresh, updated look this holiday season, and you just may take the first step toward a new year’s resolution!