The first Christmas was pretty simple. No tree, no fancy dinner, no Christmas cookies. Just Jesus, lots of love, and some carols (Angels we have heard on high!). So, in an attempt to focus more on Jesus and His love, and less on hype, there were a few areas I de-cluttered.
Nix the holiday letter. I love holiday letters. I know, some of you hate (and even mock!) the “brag rags” that get sent around this time of year. But I enjoy hearing how my friends are doing, and love doing the same. It’s the one time of year I keep in touch with some friends and family.
However, thanks to email, Facebook, and other social media, I discovered that the highlights of our lives have already been shared! So, I got rid of the letter, and saved a ton of time!
Get an address stamp. A self-inking stamp with our return address made the Christmas cards super easy this year. I didn’t have to fight with the printer to print labels and the kids could help.
Buy Gift Cards – I know, I know. They aren’t personal. And it’s cheaper and better for the world to do homemade, eco-friendly gifts. Been there, done that.
Me and homemade stuff don’t go together. I end up spending more money and time making cookies and crafts (and then remaking them because the first round was a flop.)
So, this year, for teachers and service people, I got gift cards. As a former teacher, I know that teachers appreciate(and can use) a $5-10 gift card. Really, how many bottles of hand lotion, or candles can a person use? Plus, you knock out 5 gifts at a time!
Want to make it personal? Have your kids write a short note. Check out my friend, the Frugal Mama’s post on an easy way for kids to personalize their gifts!
Selectively decorate – Actually, this is not for just this year. I do this every year. Mostly because I am not a super-decorator. I pick a few choice spots to decorate, and set out things that are either sentimental and simple. I don’t feel the need to fill up every possible space in my home. Plus it’s easier to dust this way – because dust still collects between Dec 1st and Christmas!
Online shopping – No lines, and it gets delivered to your door. Awesome! The only caveat is you should know what you want and search for that particular item. Randomly clicking through the internet looking for something to buy is obviously a time suck.
How have you simplified Christmas this year? (or maybe hope to simplify next year?!)
10 comments:
Thanks for this post, Esther. It's good to be reminded to keep it simple. We don't put up a tree or decorate much, but it still seems to get busier than we like. Also, we only get one present for each of our children -- they look forward to it and it is enough. Blessings to you...
Thanks Esther...I love this! So much good advice! I have to say, I am learning over the years to simplify, but it is still a struggle and I can always use tips! I love to online shop - it saves me money and time. I have lupus and fibromyalgia, so shopping out is like a nightmare for my body - so this saves me physical pain and exhaustion as well! I can also get more unique items and many times cheaper!
Thanks for sharing your ideas! I loved all of them!
Laura
All excellent ideas...love the address stamp idea, especially because the kids can help! I've been selective about decorating and have done a lot of online shopping this year as well. When I HAVE to go out and get a few things, I've combined it with a date night with Pete. If you have to shop why not do it with your hubby and on a stomach full of good food?! It's been a nice way to reconnect during this busy time.
One activity I am glad we are doing is Leah's involvement in our church's Christmas play. Her rehearsing and singing about the joy of Christ, as she plays around the house is such a sweet reminder of the reason for the season!
I really like this post, Esther -- you have great ideas in there, and we can all use a dose of simplification.
Why do I always find myself piling more on my plate? I think it's the desire to capitalize on the magical feeling of Christmas. But sometimes it backfires.
This year I had to cross a few things off my list or postpone them. For one thing, I decided that I couldn't keep up my blog while also trying to hang out with family, get presents ready, and compile our annual photo book.
I also decided to mail some care packages in January (along with our Christmas -- i.e. New Year's -- cards).
The gift card idea is great for teachers -- I so agree that they are probably up to their ears in knick-knacks.
I didn't know you were a former teacher!
Great ideas. I am thinking of nixing the letter too. We haven't decorated either. But we belt out Christmas songs everyday and try to talk about God and His great Gift whenever we can. It's not really intentional but more that I just don't have the time!
I stocked the freezer with 'nice' packaged cookie dough. I pop them in the oven for all the kid parties at school, Christmas parties, and last minute invites. 10 minutes and a paper plate, and I don't have to really bake!
Love that idea, Tyson! I just might steal it :)
I'm not a big decorate everything in the house kind of person. If we have even on festive, spiritual item in each room we're lucky.
I have spent a lot of time Keeping It Super Simple! I'm more into less.
Love your blog, stopping in from the MBC.
Esther,
I didn't know you were a teacher!
So I'm totally in favor of the online shopping and gift cards. Why make things harder than they have to be! Plus, if you can get free shipping, it is totally worth it.
Gift cards and online shopping save my life every year. And I really only decorate one room in my house. I hope to someday be able to spruce up the other rooms!
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