After the very strange and “unconventional” (and even that’s putting it mildly) holiday seasons we had in 2020 and 2021- this year feels like a much-needed reprieve and return to some time-honored and beloved traditions for both Thanksgiving and Christmastime. We can relax a little on the social distancing so I can hug my extended family? I don’t have to wear a mask when I’m grabbing seconds on pumpkin pie? While I’m still cautious, of course- looking ahead to the next few weeks has me feeling excited- and even a little elated!
I want to make up for some of the things I missed out on during the most festive of seasons these past couple of years- including heading back to and participating in some local events and celebrations that have returned and/or reopened to the public- and getting my holiday shopping done early so that I can focus on spending more time with my friends and family in the next few weeks.
While my mother primarily handles all things Thanksgiving (I’m on dessert duty this year- and have already picked up everything needed to whip up every pie you could ever imagine!) I’ve been finalizing my Christmas shopping list, keeping an eye out for deals or coupons in daily e-mails and social media postings- and ordering/wrapping gifts as they arrive to save myself a ton of stress and time. Come the week leading up to Christmas- I’ll be ready to visit and drop presents off for my loved ones without wanting to cry or scream.
I’ve found in the years where I’ve been able to remain highly focused and organized during the holidays is that creating a little chart- either in my weekly planner or in my Notes app on my phone, where I not only write my gift shopping list but also note when things are ordered/purchased and then when they’re wrapped/shipped or delivered- has helped me tremendously in not getting overwhelmed or, worse- forgetting to do things!
And it sounds a little bizarre- but I usually start putting together my chart as early as September- that way if I have to wait a significant amount of time for something to ship, or if I’m having something custom-made for someone- I’m giving myself plenty of time to have it delivered, reviewed and giftwrapped in time so that I’m not left panicking or scrambling.
I’m excited to share some of my upcoming gatherings, get-togethers, and local travel for the holidays in the days/weeks ahead before we start winding down the end of 2022. Can you believe we’re nearly at the end of another year?
Time flies!
xo
Coffee & Chiffon 