It has been chilly (read: below 60 degrees) in Florida this past week which means I am officially in the holiday spirit! Some of my best Christmas memories are centered around experiences rather than physical objects. Whether it involves picking out the perfect (see: most symmetrical) tree or catching up with loved ones at holiday parties, there are so many opportunities to spread Christmas cheer. Recently, I suddenly lost my grandpa who seemed to find joy in the simplist of things. I have always valued people and relationships, but having experienced so much loss so quickly has caused me to hold on to my relationships a little tighter. Therefore, you will find me taking even more time to celebrate the following holiday traditions...
1. Watching Christmas Movies
Along with listening to Christmas music, this is a given! I could curl up on the sofa with a blanket, light a candle (see #5), and sip a cup of hot cocoa (or glass of wine) just about any time of the year, but it feels more special during the holidays. While I love a good classic (Miracle on 34th Street), Elf and How the Grinch Stole Christmas are some of my personal childhood favorites.
2. Baking Cookies (And Other Holiday Confections)
I am convinced that my grandmother's nutmeg logs were worthy of an award. Although I wish I could share some of my family's favorite holiday cookie recipes, I am sworn to secrecy. Consider yourself on the nice list if you are lucky enough to receive a holiday tin full of these baked goods from me. While it is difficult to top a homemade treat, Williams Sonoma's Peppermint Bark and Fortnum & Mason's Merry-Go-Round Musical Biscuit Tin (I mean... it plays music!) are sure to get anyone in the holiday spirit.
3. Sending Holiday Cards
Call me old fashioned but I love receiving (and sending) cards in the mail. I particularly look forward to my uncle's annual Christmas letter. He spends hours carefully gathering his thoughts to produce what often feels like an entertaining (yet reflective) novel. I think I enjoy holiday cards so much because it is an easy way for someone to show how they make time for others. Every year, I like to gather up the cards that are delivered and put them on display. It is heartwarming to see everyone's smiling faces and kind words welcoming me when I am home.
4. Wrapping Presents
While I try to keep gifts minimal, I find joy in giving something meaningful to others. I am not a huge fan of knick knacks, but do believe items can be valuable if they serve a purpose. The month of December seems to fly by for me, making it inevitable to feel rushed. Taking time to wrap presents is a form of stress relief for me (even though some people may feel the opposite) because it causes me to take a break from the chaos and focus on something creative. A wrapping station helps me stay organized and allows me to be efficient. All you need is some cute wrapping paper (simple kraft paper works too!), ribbon/twine, gift tags, tape (try switching out your clear gift tape for a patterned washi tape), and a good pair of scissors. I like to add jingle bells or fresh pine needles for an extra touch. And if you want to make things even easier on yourself, you can opt for a patterned gift bag and coordinating tissue.
5. Burning Candles
It's no secret that candles are my kryptonite. In my opinion, candles are one of the most personal gifts because everyone has their own unique sense of smell, which can trigger memories and emotions. I recently took a candle-making class (10/10 would recommend) and have an even deeper appreciation for the art. If you are willing to make the investment, my friends and I agree that Thyme's Frasier Fir is THE best pine candle and worth every penny. Some of my personal favorites are Candlefish No. 4, Nest Holiday, and Capri Blue Fir & Firewood. When I want to switch things up, I like to burn Yankee Candle Christmas Cookie and am guilty of burning this one year round because it smells so delicious.
I encourage you to take time and make memories this season. What are some of your favorite holiday pastimes?