This year I will be ready for Christmas without all the stress of last year.
I had been at home for the past 25 years or so and have always gone all out for Christmas. We also do a Boxing Day (Dec. 26 for those who don’t know) open house for as many people as show up. Food is a main part of this day.
I had a lot of time to prepare, bake, decorate and shop. I started early and went full speed ahead with a smile on my face and heart.
I went back to work full time about 2 years ago and last year I was the first time I was completely strapped for time and energy for my Christmas preparations.
I didn’t prepare the kinds of foods that I normally would and although it is more about the friends and family who come by this was not okay with me. The guests always offer to bring food too but that is not what I want. Any other time of the year sure but Christmas is different.
I also didn’t finish decorating the house the way I usually do either.
NO. NO. NO. Not this year.
I have taken a week holiday from work starting on Monday so I can get things done. Many people would think I am crazy but it makes me happy to get ready for Christmas. I would rather do this than go away for a week. Really.
When I was a child Christmas was not a happy time since my mother had little money and we were often relying on the generosity of others for gifts. The food hamper was the only way we had a traditional turkey dinner.
It is important to me to have things in my home the way I want for Christmas. It is not that I want perfection. It isn’t about a spotless house because I assure you that will never happen. It is about setting the stage. It is about setting the tone, the feeling.
And this year I will have it back again. Now I have to get ready for my last day of work…… for now.
Good Morning my friend..I hope you have a great week off and enjoy all your decorating girl..Hugs and smiles Gloria
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you are full of the holiday spirit and I wish I lived closer cause then I could sneak in for the party. Sounds like lots of fun. Love your enthusiasm. V
ReplyDeleteAwww Lori, I love that you have the spirit of Christmas, and yes it can be stressful if you get overwhelmed... you are a smart cookie, taking off a little time... hope u get some Santa's helpers to help you.
ReplyDeleteHugs, T
I was reading this post in Google Reader and just had to come by to say, do what makes you happy, you deserve it! By the way, I love your Santa collection, especially the one you featured the other day, the one you painted, it's fabulous.
ReplyDeleteMay your tone always be happy, happy, happy, Lori.
ReplyDeleteAs you enjoy your week off, know that I'm sending smiling and happy thoughts your way. Have a wonnnderful time decorating. Sounds like fun to me. I'm with you, girl!!
I love the photo you took of your Santa!!!
Hugs and smiles,
Jackie
Sounds exciting for you, I can see that it is a tradition that comes from the heart for you. I am sure all those that visit look forward to your party as well. Love your Father Christmas. Diane
ReplyDeleteYou will be ready and you will have the time of your life! Guests don't care about the food...they like the mood, so that is what it is all about when you start creating. I'm happy you took this time and I hope you also take time to relax!!
ReplyDeleteXO,
Jane
I've just been moaning (to myself) about how I might get everything done the way I want. the only difference is that I am retired. So, by your inspiration I will take a week off and get things done.
ReplyDeleteAhhhhh tahts what I say every year tooo and trust me... Im sprinting around on the day even! LOL But good luck girl, more power to ya!
ReplyDeleteHugs,
We would love to come to your Christmas,(boxing day) it sounds like the kind of Christmas I really like. We have spent Christmas with your sis and have had a wonderful time, but if we were home and on the mainland I would come to your place, sounds great. Would be a Mooch !!!! I'm sure you will have a great time with your friends, Merry Christmas to you and Tom, Anne and Hal
ReplyDeleteAnne, everyone from the Mooch Club would be welcome.....easy for me to say because they are all on the Island...lol.
ReplyDeleteYou are so sweet...you just want to have everything ready for your friends on Boxing day.
ReplyDeleteHave a good week off and have fun!!
Good for you! I'm a little slow every year in getting started, but once I get "the bug", I get busy. Already have plans to get the decorating done this week and your post has helped assure that will happen.
ReplyDelete