Yes, September is nearly upon us, and the stores have begun the transformation...time to start thinking about Christmas. Before I was a crafty person, I rejected the notion that we had to think about Christmas before fall even arrived. I groaned as the stores moved in Christmas decorations earlier and earlier each year. I was appalled at the idea of Christmas music in November (yes, even November was too early for me).
But now, I get it. This is a crazy holiday, friends. Last year, I waited until December to start working on my handmade holiday gifts. Frankly, I just wasn't in the Christmas mood during November. I hosted Thanksgiving, and I was busy! By the time I was in the Christmas mood, I didn't want to engaged in a frantic sewing marathon. I wanted to enjoy the softer, traditional Christmas activities.
I wanted to see the Way of Lights, ride the camels, drink hot cocoa and eat kettle corn.
I wanted to hunt for the perfect Christmas tree,
Haul out the decorations (you thought I was going to say holly), light up the house.
I wanted to stroll around the mall and window shop. I wanted to watch Christmas movies. I wanted to bake cookies and decorate gingerbread houses.
I wanted to sew, too, but in a leisurely way. I didn't enjoy the stress to "just get it done." I wanted to mosey, while watching Christmas memories unfold outside my window.
In order to make time for such things, I am beginning the Christmas crafting early this year. Do it with me!
I won't pretend I've thought of this on my own. A few days ago, I stumbled upon Organized Christmas. It's an amazing site, with all sorts of tips to walk you through getting ready for the holidays. You can find some great tools--I've only just started exploring the site, but have already downloaded the "Gifts to Make" planning sheet and the "What's in the Gift Closet" list.
Over the next few weeks, I'll share my Christmas ideas and reveal the things on my list. I'm hoping there will even be some sneak peeks as things get finished (fingers crossed that things get finished). I might have to be a bit secretive, because some of the recipients might occassionally read my blog (*cough* mom, dad *cough*).
Of course, I won't be handcrafting it all myself. The wonderful world of Etsy will most certainly supply a gift or two.