It’s December…the holidays are officially here! Are you excited or anxious? Bit of both? That’s where I’m at. Preparing your heart and home for the festivities can be a lot, so leaning into things that bring you calm and joy is essential. Here are a few of my favourite holiday rituals that help ground and get me in the Christmas spirit:
handmade cards
Making one-of-a-kind cards is my favourite way to ‘tis the season and spread joy. Each year, I choose a different theme for the cover art and greeting, and my girls and I handmake Christmas cards. It takes thought and time but that’s honestly the best distraction for my mind. This year, I sketched trees for my clients and my girls drew snowflakes for our family and friends. Every year, their involvement grows, which is exciting to see. It makes this project special for the card recipients and makers.
kid's ornament tree
It’s pretty precious when our kiddos bring home a handcrafted ornament from school. If you have a vision for your tree and aren’t sure where those creations fit in, consider having a tree just for them! Before kids, we traveled North every year, so we only invested in a 4-foot faux fir. It’s since become their tree to decorate however they like with their ornaments (including special ones gifted to them). They love it now and I know I’m going to love it even more when they’re grown…a sentimental way to remember the little years.🥰
lights
I love Christmas lights. They awaken the night and make bare branches sparkle. Inside or out, lights bring the magic of this season to life. If you’re local, Park Forest residents have some beautiful light displays worth gazing at. Growing up in Edmonton, I was mesmerized by the city’s annual light festival better known as Candy Cane Lane. Since 1968, residents have gone all out with exterior lights and decorations. You can even take it all in on a sleigh ride! My photos don’t do it justice, so check out this video for a glimpse of this spectacular tradition (@yegcandycanelane).
what’s your favourite pre-Christmas activity?
Setting up the exterior lights and switching to my Christmas playlist marks the start of our holiday season. It’s a truly magical season and little things like these help put the present in perspective.
Whatever activity ignites the holiday spirit for you, I hope you make time for it and spread some joy by sharing it with others below!
Always,
Kommentare