Oh The Weather Outside is Frightful …
Oh Yes, Yes Indeed It Is
So why is this little Christmas ditty renting space in my mind?
Well, it’s mid-July, it’s hot as Hades, and before I know it, the bells will be jingling, turkeys will be basting, and eggnog will be flowing.
This year, I do not want to be caught flat-footed.
As a retired widow living on a fixed income, holiday planning takes strategy — not just for the budget (obviously), but also for my physical and emotional well-being. If I want to actually enjoy the season, I need to start now… even if it feels ridiculous doing it while sweating through a tank top.
The Budget — A Holiday Reality Check
Let’s be honest: the budget is the biggie.
My kids are grown and mostly on their own. They have what they need, and often, what they want. In years past, I’ve tried gifting them practical home goods, only to find out they already had them… or didn’t want them. I’ve given personal care items — the girls loved them. The men? They smiled politely, then probably re-gifted them.
There were gift cards that were never used. And cash? That went straight to bills — not quite the festive magic I was going for.
Moral of the story?
Adult children who are doing well financially are nearly impossible to shop for.
Thank Goodness for the Grandkids
Now, the grands — they’re my holiday sweet spot. At ages 11, 10, and 4, they’re still in the magic zone. Barbie dolls, Hot Wheels, video games — those are easy wins.
And let me tell you — shopping for them brings out my inner child. I’ve got my eye on a Barbie Dream House, a big ol’ box of Legos, and maybe something battery-powered and noisy (because what are grandmothers for if not chaos and joy?).
Alternative Gifting: The Grown Kids Get Creative
Wanting to be more intentional with my gift giving this year, I asked my kids to brainstorm some alternatives for the adults. They didn’t disappoint:
“Let’s play Dirty Santa with a $10.00 limit.”
“Let’s do a thrift-store gift exchange.”
“Let’s give each other DIY crafts to complete.”
“Let’s skip gifts and do a Christmas Eve feast with games.”
“Let’s all pitch into a savings account and plan a spring family trip.”
I love every one of these ideas. Now, we just have to choose one. Easy, right? (laughs in group text chaos)
Holiday Headquarters: AKA My House
Let’s face it — I’m the Holiday Mom. I do delegate, though! Thanksgiving is now at my daughter’s house. She makes the turkey and dressing, I bring the sides, my other daughter brings the desserts, and my son? He brings the wine and crudités. (A charmingly low-effort assignment.)
But Christmas? That’s still my stage.
I start decorating on November 1. The trees go up. The lights go out. Yes, I have five trees — and no, I will not apologize. It takes about a week, but it fills the house with joy and sparkle (and pine needles).
This year, though, I want it to feel less like a race and more like a celebration. I know, I know… I’m laughing as I write this, too. But I mean it — this year, I’m aiming for peace over perfection.
Self-Care, Please and Thank You
The holidays aren’t just about giving — they’re about preserving my sanity.
Physically, I want to feel good enough to enjoy the season. Emotionally, I want to protect my energy. That means:
Scheduling a massage after Tree Week
Setting aside quiet time each day to rest
Giving myself permission to say no when needed
Sitting down with a cup of coffee and enjoying the glow of the lights I worked so hard to string
Because what’s the point of all the glitter and garland if I’m too exhausted to enjoy it?
So Here I Am…
Starting my holiday prep in July.
Dreaming of a white Christmas… while sweating my backside off.
Pinterest, here I come.
Blessings,
Bethanne
