I don’t even know how to begin explaining the differences between this Christmas season and the last five or so. It was so stressful trying to get everything ready. I would always start with the cleaning. For the last few years, that’s where I got stuck. About three years ago, there was so much stuff that I couldn’t even get a couch in my living room unburied. It had about 4 feet of stuff on top of it and I just threw a blanket over it. Instead of having a place for people to sit, I had a giant mound of stuff.
Shopping was a nightmare before. I would go shopping but then there was no place to put anything once I got it here. There were no places big enough for wrapping gifts which by the way wasn’t done until Christmas Eve. Then I would be up all night and was exhausted Christmas Day. Today, 8 days before Christmas, I’ve wrapped some presents. Since I didn’t need to be home cleaning every minute, I have actually had some time for shopping and wrap.
If I can finish up the cleaning between today and tomorrow, I will be able to make some cookies on Tuesday. That makes me so happy. I love making Christmas cookies but since I had to spend all that time cleaning the last few years, I didn’t have time for cookies. I love Christmas time but really haven’t enjoyed it at all the last few years because of the mess. I’m just so excited this year. Honestly, I can’t wait until next year because I’ve only just begun with the decluttering.
The only thing that I haven’t gotten to yet this year is the Christmas cards. I don’t think I will be sending any out again this year. I’m a little sad that I didn’t get to them because we had two weddings this year and I usually put a long letter with my cards along with a few pictures. I’m sure that next year I will be able to get to them!
Has decluttering made a difference in your holiday seasons?
A lot of people send Christmas cards which kind of makes them less special (in my mind). I recommend instead sending them either at a more random time (happy summer cards?) Or sending cards to people throughout the year, you can still use the same Christmas card list but just send a regular card to each person sometime in the new year.
Maybe I’ll aim for getting the first ones out for Valentine’s Day 🙂
Jen, I’m so happy for you!! Joy at Christmas, and any time, is so necessary for true peace!
I haven’t done cards in about 8 years. And nobody has complained! Except my mother! So, I do try to get her a special one.
I am reading this after writing my post! I know exactly how you feel!! Isn’t it great?!?