“It takes real planning to organize this kind of chaos.”
-Mel Odom
So here we are at the beginning of another month. Not only is it a new month, but we are now in the last stages of the years. This is often a busy time for me due to birthdays for me and my husband, Carl, and the holidays. Even though things get quite hectic, it’s important to find time to keep everything in sync.
For me, getting an early start on everything works best. So far, I have ideas for my husband’s birthday (which is a first for me). He is a laid back guy, but it’s hard to find a gift for him. No need to go into this deeper in case he decides to check on this post.
Most of my attention will be spent on Christmas. We normally make a big production from picking a live Christmas tree, taking pictures for a family Christmas card, baking cookies, buying gifts, and eating a special Christmas meal.
Last year was the first year we bought matching pajamas. I’d like to do that again along with making a Christmas Eve box for each of us. In the box would be the pajamas, a book (we’re big into continuous learning), a snack, an ornament and whatever else I come across.
So how do I manage all of this? I spend lots of time with my trusty friend Pinterest. I probably spend about a few hours a week on Pinterest to generate ideas. Sometimes I use what’s there or I just add my own creative spin.
Once I have the idea, it’s added to a list. For me, it works to set a deadline (usually earlier than necessary), and to work backwards. For instance, taking the annual family photo is more than scheduling a studio appointment. It also includes deciding on a theme (yes, I’m all about a theme for everything!), shopping for outfits, deciding to go with a professional or using my own camera and a tripod, selecting the photo card layout, buying stamps, and actually sending the cards out so they are delivered in December (as opposed to New Year’s Eve or Valentine’s Day lol!). I’m already tired just thinking about it!
Now, do you see why I need to start early? Of course this doesn’t need to be a big production, but once I get an idea in my head, it’s hard to let it go. For some people, all of this could be accomplished in a day. Since I spend countless hours on Pinterest, this process goes on for weeks for me. Even though it’s hectic, it’s worth it in the end. I get some quality family time, great pictures, and lasting memories with our traditions.
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