Less or More for Christmas?

Christmas 2017 header mantle

That is the Question

Some years we go a little overboard. Other years we keep it simple. I enjoy all forms of holiday cheer, but this year is quite a different one for us.

It’s turning out to be the most low-key December I’ve ever had, and I’ve got to say… I kind of love it! Our calendars are filling up, but our shopping carts are not. Both mine and Joe’s families are basically not doing Christmas presents. (Coincidentally, they both decided to put that money toward family trips, weddings, and home projects rather than splurging on Christmas gifts.) Also, any Secret Santa name drawing we’ve usually done is now white elephant or generic dice game gifts. And Joe and I never exchange Christmas gifts to begin with…

A Minimalist Christmas

So really, we don’t have any shopping to do! I’ve given up Black Friday shopping many years ago and I have a hunch other people are growing tired of it too. Although I do love turning on some Christmas tunes and snuggling in to wrap presents, the “stuff” is not what Christmas is all about. And even though I do love finding the perfect present, I’d much rather snuggle around the fire with friends and family and not worry so much about remembering every last person I have to check off a list.

Last Year

Just a quick comparison from last year to this year.

holiday decor DIY home

The perfect poinsettia

holiday decor DIY home

Christmas candles around every corner

Christmas movies every night

holiday decor DIY home

Decked out halls

holiday decor DIY home

Hosting holiday parties

holiday decor DIY home bar cart

Fully stocked bar cart

holiday decor DIY home

Christmas cookies everywhere

holiday decor DIY home

So. Many. Cookies.

Fully loaded Christmas tree.

This Year

Christmas sign

Selling my Christmas decor

Christmas tree lights

Joe did put up Christmas lights – something we didn’t do last year, so there’s that.

Christmas cookies

And scaling back on cookies.

‘Tis the Season

Nothing wrong with either approach; I was absolutely enjoying going Christmas crazy last year. I don’t know what’s in the water this year, but I’m happily drinking it. (As long as we get a little more snow. 😉 ) I definitely have seasons where I want to go full out, but this year is not appearing to be one of them. And guess what? I’m 100% loving it. I’m happy to enjoy this season as it unfolds and make room for whatever comes. After all, it’s the people you’re with who make it merry and bright. Amiright?

 

holiday decor DIY home

 

What kind of holiday season are you having?

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1 comment

  1. Totally true about how you spend it with people you love!! I didn’t even put up a tree which I’m still debating but it’s nice just relax and enjoy each other! Can’t wait for our full lake trip in January