I tried to keep going with the year round holiday prep but family and friends kept me very busy this year. Besides work, I have done a lot of traveling and been to so many different celebrations (birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, family reunions) that try as I might, I just didn't have the time to do anything Christmassy. Although it was on my mind constantly.
But my favorite time of year has arrived - Autumn - and it is just what I need to get focused. I love this time of year.
It's been a rainy weekend so far here in Maryland. It's also quite chilly. Thank goodness that storm that was supposed to hit decided to stay out in the Atlantic. I love rainy days, but not that much, LOL.
Since I decided to stay in this weekend, I pulled out my trusty holiday planner notebook and got started. I usually follow one of the plans over at Magical Holiday Home but they are already into week five. No worries. I will just jump in and get the ball rolling.
To start I printed a few blank calendar pages from online and began noting upcoming events for the remainder of the year. It's looking a little bare right now but I know it will start filling up real fast. I also got started on my master gift list. While spending a little time online window shopping I found some great gift ideas. I hope to actually started holiday shopping by the end of next week. What's next? Oh yeah! I need to update my excel spreadsheet. I like to keep track of gifts I've given in previous years so that I don't duplicate them. I must say that I am starting to run out of ideas, LOL.
Tomorrow I will continue with my lists. One major list I need to get done early is the menu for the annual Christmas Eve family dinner. For many it's probably easy but not for me. I like to do something different each year. There may be one or two favorites that are a must but I like to switch it up.
It's nearly 6 so I think after I update my spreadsheet I'm going to take a break for the rest of the evening, grab some snacks, plop on the sofa under a blanket and watch some movies.
