As preparations for Christmas 2020 are finalized, I'm thinking about Christmas 2021. Though I can't predict what changes will occur in the year ahead, I can think about this year's preparations, and what I want to do the same, and what I want to do differently.
Decorations
We have a nice collection of decorations. The only addition, I'd like to add is to possibly add some outdoor lights. The key is to package those decorations nicely at the end of this year's holiday so they are easy to access next year.
Christmas Tree
We have a beautiful tree this year that came from a local farm. I'd like to make choosing and putting up our tree a tradition on the Sunday after Thanksgiving. I love having a beautiful tree up for all or most of the month of December. I really like having the hand-me-down fake tree in our den--it is a warm reminder of Christmases past.
Gifts
I want to buy gifts all year and pick up objects that remind me of the people I love. As for my closest relatives, I want to rethink the gifts a bit. I'll think about that.
Cards
With a family celebration coming up, I hope we'll take a nice family photo for next year's cards. I'm thankful that my husband takes that task on and sends cards to many of the people we cherish.
Foods
I love preparing all kinds of good foods--the smells make the house inviting, and the food is enjoyed by all. I'll continue that tradition.
Parties
Sadly, we didn't have the big family parties this year due to the virus. I hope that we'll have those parties again next year. Knowing the dates early for the extended family party will be helpful, and as for the more intimate family party, we'll likely continue our Christmas Day tradition with a big meal and Yankee swap. I'd like to have my female-cousin luncheon again too--I have a large group of women cousins who I truly enjoy getting together with so I'd like to continue that tradition as well. I suspect we'll get together with close friends too for dinner parties.
Outdoor adventures
I'd like to add some outdoor adventures to the holiday agenda too--we'll see how that shapes up in the year ahead.
All in all, we've made the best of this pandemic time holiday. Now as we near the holiday, it's time to put on the finishing touches, relax, and enjoy our small, intimate family gathering. Onward.