When I’m in the early stages of thinking about decorating for Christmas, before I pull out the bins or lights, faux greens, and ornaments, I usually feel pretty resolved that I’m going to keep things simple. As you may notice if you visit my blog regularly, I’m always busy with something. When Thanksgiving is over, and the calendar turns to December, I’m already looking forward to the post-Christmas slow-down. The glorious lost week between Christmas and New Year’s Day, when I clear the calendar completely, say no to almost everything, and reserve that time for myself, my family, and rest. We binge-watch our favorite series, chip away at a puzzle, eat leftovers, and stay in our jammies all day. Just thinking about that week makes me want to take the ramp-up to Christmas gently.
And, in all honesty, I’ve spent over fifteen years decorating and making things for Christmas as a part of my business, and I still feel some burnout from the years of Christmas photoshoots in February, Christmas tutorials in April, Christmas sales in September, and Christmas blog posts starting in October.
my favorite LED real-wax candles | creative candle trick | dried orange slices
But then, the guys bring up the bins from the basement, we set up the trees, string the lights, and my mind starts buzzing with ideas. I begin to feel that momentum that comes from doing things. I do simple things, the basic foundations of decorating for Christmas, and those simple things inspire me to do a little more, not out of obligation, but out of a love for creating and childlike giddiness for my favorite season.
Now I’m looking forward to decorating as play and experimentation, rather than work. Yes, it’s work, but when it’s done from a place of excitement, it’s easy and joyful. Work that’s done while playing Christmas music and singing along. It’s enjoyable work. I’ve already ordered some supplies for new things I want to make and share for the season.
salt dough houses
All of this doesn’t mean I’m not going to keep it simple. So far, I’ve just put up everything the same way I did last year, and have a few new projects planned, but I feel carried along by the momentum that began with the first steps.
Maybe you’re feeling the same way as I did – a little overwhelmed at the expectations, real or perceived, of the Christmas rush. I want to encourage you to take the first few steps and let the momentum carry you wherever it leads. Perhaps decorating isn’t your thing, but this is how you feel when approaching your favorite creative medium – baking, wrapping presents, handmade cards, arranging inflatables in your yard, etc. Maybe you do the basics, and that’s okay, but perhaps you do them with a lighter heart.
air dry clay ornaments
Maybe the momentum propels you forward, and you’re inspired to try new things, to make new things, and it’s so fun that you keep going right up until Christmas Eve…