Christmas Planning In…
Hey Loves!
So, if I can be honest, last year Christmas snuck up on me and caught me all the way slipping. Why? Because I didn’t plan for it early. Well, some parts I did but other, not so much. I also tried to take on all the things, including hosting two cookie shares and organizing a secret Santa gift exchange. On 12/24/2019, I vowed to return to my old ways of planning early and have been doing just that throughout the year. (If you are wondering why I started planning so early in the first place, it is because of this.)
Then, COVID-19. I think it would be a gross understatement to say this Pandemic changed our plans and/or ability plan. I mean, by now, I would’ve had my photos scheduled. That’s not possible because we have no idea what will be open, how our photographer will be impacted, etc. So, I have been doing what I know I can do and I’ll share that with you.
Photos and Cards: If this is your thing, get it done ASAP. Either snap. edit and organize your phone photos, pick out card templates or design your own and figure out all the addresses!
Running Gift Lists: On my phone, in the “Google Keep” app, I have a running list of gifts for myself and for my kids. These gifts will go to grandparents, friends, godparents, etc. This way, I am not hunting and searching for something they may like or desire during the holiday season. I email or text the links to the persons above. I never “ask” them but rather use this as a guide. It also helps me not overbuy and keep an eye out at consignment or flash sales.
Plan for Traditions: As much as you can, plan for certain traditions, or prepare to have them done virtually. For example, I am coming to terms with the fact that I probably won’t host a cookie swap in person. I can organize a virtual cookie share in which we share recipes and traditions. Also, lots of things that are traditionally on our Advent Calendar may not happen so, I will either need a virtual substitute or change it up entirely so it can be done at home. I am seeing lots of cocoa recipes, reindeer games, and indoor snowball fights in our future.
Inspect Decor: Do your lights actually work? What was that thing you said you needed to get in January but you forgot? All of that. It is going to be a little more difficult to just run into a store safely so plan ahead. Wanna try some DIYs? Get the supplies and do that now. Be on the lookout for a felt-ball garland tutorial!
Breathe: I hate to break it to you, but this holiday season, as with any other, is going to have some hiccups. You are going to forget something. You are going to forget to send someone or a family a card. It happens. You are human. Breathe. Give yourself grace.
As I think of them, I will be sharing more holiday ideas and activities here and via socials..
Love you. Mean it.
