Like many things in 2021, the holidays might look a little different this year. That doesn't mean they can't be peaceful, joyful, and cultivated, though! Our team put together this Wildcard page just for you: to help you focus on what matters this season, and let go of the rest. It might be just what you've been looking for!
After you've identified your priorities, there's a space on the worksheet to list a few action items for the season ahead. This isn't meant to be an exhaustive to do list, but instead a way to highlight what is most important to you! If you need a few ideas of what to add to your worksheet or Tending List, we gathered a few below - and would love to hear your ideas in the comments, too!
Preparing well for the holidays:
- Order holiday cards
- Update your address book
- Plan your calendar, accounting for travel plans/guests, activities, events, and babysitters, if necessary
- Choose a devotional or faith focus (have to recommend our Write the Word™ Advent bundle!)
- Draw names for family or friend gift picks
- Coordinate holiday plans with family or friends
- Make a gift plan (Emily on our team likes to use a Google Doc - one sheet for each year, so she can easily go back and look at what she gave in past years!)
- Buy tickets for special holiday activities
- Gather your gift wrapping supplies and put them in an easy-to-access location
- Make a budget (include gifts, activities, events, and extras like decor or pajamas!)
- Brainstorm holiday food (big "event" meals and smaller ones, too!)
- "Clear the decks" before adding in holiday decor. Tidy trouble spots, throw away trash, and remove extra items from surfaces.
- Make a plan for generosity and service
Enjoying the holidays:
- Pay for the person behind you in the drive-through line
- Donate toys to a local organization
- Bake treats and gift them to friends or neighbors
- Work on a puzzle
- Read favorite holiday stories
- Drive (or walk!) to look at houses with their holiday lights
- Make a homemade wreath with live evergreen branches
- Host a holiday movie marathon
What holiday items have you added to your November or December Tending List? We'd love to hear!
Emily Thomas
1 comment
I’m glad that I read this blog though it’s early October. The holidays come quickly. Two years ago, I tried to do it all. I was so tired. Last year, I planned more and reduced my expectations and tried to do our favorite traditions. It was a lot more relaxed than the year prior. This year, I want to have more intentions on the feelings and connection that I want for my family. So, I’m starting earlier this year and can’t wait to enjoy all the wonderful moments of the season.