I making a lot of changes where it concerns my extended families. It will be hard to cut back on some of the travel and traditions that have been going on for years, but there comes a time when, if you don't feel your efforts are valued, that you should step back and reevaluate. I did that this past year and am letting go of some of the traditions that I loved, but not really valued by others.
That means more of my time and resources will be available for those who do value the same things I do! I'm looking forward to doing more things for my neighbors and friends! New traditions, maybe? Or just an opportunity to show my gratitude for those around me? I don't know yet, but I am looking forward to finding out!
This blog is active during the September, October, November and December months, with a couple of January posts and Christmas in July posts. This lets me really focus on the holiday season and to try to make things as practical as possible.
So what am I doing in September?
I am working on ornaments! I have already commissioned ornaments for my GLU girlfriends (we go way back to sending ornaments to each other for over fifteen years, I believe! They have been packed up and sent to the organizer, who will repack and send ornaments in time for us to have them for holiday decorating after Thanksgiving. I will post when I get "the box" as it is always so much fun to see what everyone is doing!
I am also making these dip ornaments for my cookie exchange guests. I made them a couple of years ago but I just have to do them again! They were so fun and everyone loved the dip mix! Click on the link for the recipe and directions.
I found the ornaments at Dollar Tree, 2 for $1, which is the cheapest I have ever purchased them, even with a coupon from my favorite craft store. Get them while you can!
I am also shopping the stores that have some items out for Christmas. Beating the rush, so to speak! I have a darling ceramic Christmas tree, about 8" high that I am eager to display, plus I found some battery operated mini lights that I think I will use in a wreath. I'm also picking up some battery operated candles while the getting is good!
What are you doing now to prepare for your holidays?
Looks like you're off to a good start! It is difficult to let some traditions go, but I admire you for reevaluating and putting your efforts and time where they will be appreciated and you'll enjoy yourself more.
ReplyDeleteI am not quite ready to think about Christmas yet, as I want to enjoy Fall. I think it is awesome that you are getting a head start on your ornaments.
ReplyDeleteI love your ornament exchange tradition! And that really is a great price on those ornaments. I'll definitely have to head to Dollar Tree and stock up.
ReplyDeleteNO WAY!! That is crazy - - I really need to get started thinking about Christmas, it pops up so fast!
ReplyDeleteIt is hard to let go of traditions, but you will be better off for it. I have had to do the same, and at first it made me sad but now I am fine with it. Christmas is better when you are around those who love you, value you, and enjoy your presence as much as you enjoy theirs.
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of making gifts to give to extended family! It can be really hard to come up with gifts for everyone during the holiday season.
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of dip ornaments! I have never seen this idea before. I am going to do this for my bunko group. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI collected supplies this week to work on ornaments too! Thats my project for the month. I can't wait to keep reading your Christmas blog
ReplyDeleteI haven't even started thinking about Christmas yet, I need to make it through Thanksgiving first! Life is too short to be spending energy in places where you don't feel you're getting the most out of them, so here are to new traditions!
ReplyDeleteThese ornaments are gorgeous! I like to change my ornaments every year and like you, I start making them as early as September.
ReplyDeleteLooks like you are off and running. I am excited to see what it to come this season.
ReplyDeleteI never knew you had a Christmas blog? I think you are doing well, especially since you are reevaluating your traditions and trying something new.
ReplyDeleteThe dip ornaments are so creative! I would love to make these as a gift and they look so cost effective. Perfect for teachers.
ReplyDeleteOk, these cookie exchange ornaments are too freaking cute! What a great Secret Santa gift with the girls or coworkers! And the fun baking that'll commence after?! Priceless! :)
ReplyDeleteSuzanne | MaQ + Suz
www.suzannespiegoski.com
I can't believe Christmas is right around the corner! Time goes by SO fast sometimes it's crazy! Those ornaments are adorable!
ReplyDeleteOh I am so not ready for Christmas. Thanks for sharing these great ideas
ReplyDeleteI've never heard of dip ornaments before. What a neat idea!! My husband says we can't do anything Christmas-y, until after Thanksgiving haha! Right now, I'm thinking about Halloween :)
ReplyDeleteOhh we are just as excited as your are about Christmas! I am getting my boys involved in decorating this year and already have my fairy lights ready! Gonna check the dollar store, too! :)
ReplyDeleteI have not even started thinking about Christmas. Looks like you have a great plan going though! I can't wait to get mine togeter.
ReplyDeleteI absolutely love Christmas! It sounds like you have a fun group and the ornament exchange is great. Can't wait to see what you get.
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