The joy of a simple holiday.

I really didn't mean to take such a long break from the blog...I've just been busy. Our Etsy shop has continued to enjoy steady sales, and I've been having a great time sewing gifts and baking Christmas cookies. I have to say, sitting at my cozy sewing nook and making a gift is a lot more fun than fighting my way through crowds at the mall!

This little birdie keeps me company at my sewing corner. Please ignore the dirt on the window. I do. ;)

I hear a lot of people, blogging folks specifically, expressing their desire to simplify their holidays. I can certainly understand this sentiment. Over the past few decades, it seems that the Christmas season has turned from a special time shared with loved ones, to a rather sickening frenzy of commercialism. The flyers that frequently arrive at our doorstep exhorting us to purchase high-definition wide screen tvs and diamond earrings for our loved ones; the displays of festive greenery that go up at the mall the very day after Halloween; the advertisements and sales pitches everywhere we turn, all telling us to BUY BUY BUY...it all gets to be a bit much. No wonder more than a few of us are taking a step back and saying enough is enough. Christmas is not about buying the latest, coolest technology or the biggest diamond or the most gorgeous dress or the most fashionable decorations. At least, it shouldn't be.

Although we're pretty much making all our gifts this year, I know that the kids will receive a lot of generous gifts from other sources, and I feel an urgent need to cleanse the house of excess possessions before the big day. Our house is small and we can't be lax about getting rid of stuff. I feel this way every time the cold winds of December arrive. This is when I enjoy cleaning, even more than in spring time. I have been honestly having a good time the past few days, organizing cupboards and closets, and determining what things will go to Value Village and which will be freecycled. Doing this is not only a practical need, but it helps to bring into focus for me what is really important in our lives and what is not, which seems appropriate at this time of year.

I've been having fun tinkering on our keyboard, playing some old-fashioned Christmas carols.

It's so easy to get carried away at Christmas-time, but I'm really trying hard to make sure we don't make our family Christmas about fancy things and presents, or even about lots of activities. Rather, I want our holidays to be about simple fun, good food, and the love we share. And so far this year, with crafting, baking, music, and not shopping, I'm definitely taking more joy out of the holidays than in previous years.

What simple holiday joy are you enjoying right now?

Comments

[Citysister]

This morning we went to a nursing home and sang carols with the residents and then had cookies and chocolate milk with them. It was a lot of fun! We had a long talk about doing things for people that may not have as much joy in their lives as we do. Doing for others is a lot of fun the kiddos figured out.

[Karen]

Christmas music....all day.
And the peace of mind that comes when all commitments are done, and nothing but fun times ahead.

[Laura Jeanne]

That sounds wonderful! We were going to do that last year but my kids came down with the flu at the last moment. You've reminded me to find something we can do to bring holiday joy to others. :)

[Laura Jeanne]

I've always loved Christmas music...especially all the old churchy carols. I wish I had a few more CDs...my own playing is fun but does leave something to be desired! :)

[Morgan]

I really appreciate the fact that others feel that Christmas has gone so commercialized. Most people these days have forgotten what its all about.I've begun to think my family and myself were the only ones who thought this way. Most of us let the media push us around to conform us to the belief that more and more-brings happiness. I'm so tired of it, its almost made me want to give up on celebrating it. But like you, we are mainly making our own gifts. And boycotting the commercialized Christmas. And focusing on Christs birth, family time, and old fashioned pleasures: baking, singing, and reading the bible. Thank you for your inspiration. :)

[Shannon B.]

When I remember back to my childhood, while admittedly Christmas morning was a hoot, I think the sweetest and most treasured memories were the family traditions that involved no gift giving but rather just fellowship, fun and good food. (i.e. Christmas eve parties, building snowmen, decorating the tree together, watching holiday specials, etc.)

[country sister]

I have really noticed that my kids not having TV and being a long distance from any big stores, they just dont ask for stuff for Christmas. Yet...And I am savoring every beautiful moment of it...and hoping it lasts. This year my 7 year old sat on Santa's lap at a little community thing and when he asked what she wanted she said...i dont know...whatever you want to bring will be great. that is my gift this christmas!

[Femmesteader]

I love the topic of anti-materialism. Long Live Handmade Goodies!

This year, Sweetheart and I have decided not to spend too much, but we both really like surprises. I’m making her present this year.
I’m going to do a special painting. The only thing I will have to buy is the canvas. ($12.99 for three 1’x3’canvasses) The main focus of the painting will be having the dog dipped in non-toxic black acrylic paint and have him walk across the 3 foot canvas. The painting is supposed to look like an abstract beige and burgundy background with black dog footprints across the length. I’m keeping the end result as vague as possible because there is no estimating how it will turn out when an animal is included in the process. : )

The only thing sweetheart loves more than me is our little french bulldog, so this is a gift that not only is handmade, but equally created by the family she loves. (and under $20)

-Femmesteader

[KareBear]

I agree....the Christmas season has gotten way out of hand and much too commercialized, which takes away from the true meaning of Christmas.
Peace, Love, and Forgiveness are gifts that you can't put a price on.

Handmade gifts are made with love and from the heart...what more could one ask for.

Making good memories of quality time with family & friends and helping those who are less fortunate...these make priceless gifts that last a lifetime!

I wish you all Love, Happiness, Good Health & Peace!!!!