Holidaze is a new series about having a fun, less costly, relaxing fall and winter holiday season.
I'm not religious and did not have happy holidays for much of my life. My perspective is different and, I think, valuable in some ways. If you're religious, I'm happy for you too and hope my tips can still give you more joy, less stress, or both. This is about the material trappings or mindset, not specific people's spiritual holidays.
I love making things, and am trying to lower the barrier for others. You don't have to be "talented" or "artistic" to make charming decorations out of almost nothing. I want most of my holiday projects to be temporary, so they can be tossed and recycled easily. There is no heirloom paper chain garland. This is also healthy to model for kids in your orbit.
I'm really, really opposed to scrolling social media for longer than a few minutes. I like projects while I watch TV or videos, listen to audiobooks or music, etc. You can invite friends or family and chat with them while you make things.
There should not be deadlines for stuff that's supposed to be fun, loving, and comfortable, so I start early and spend as much time as I want. If your life is really busy, it's an even better idea to start now.
Today, paper is a great place to start. Look around for old magazines or catalogs, the printer recycle bin at work, your or your kids' craft supplies, paper grocery bags. Start gathering it up! Once you tune your vision in this direction, you'll notice more options to pick up, without stressing about it.
Thanks for reading. Happy day after Election Day for those who are celebrating!
As I add Holidaze posts, I'll link to the others.
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