Decking the halls has become a major event for many families. From the life-size Frosty in the front yard to the bazillion tiny white lights fastened to everything that doesn’t move, we’ve given Clark Griswold from the movie “Christmas Vacation” a run for his money.
So, why not simplify your tree trimming and holiday decorating this year?
We did.
Instead of putting up all of our eight Christmas trees, draping greenery up the banister and around the light fixtures, and wrapping white lights around the columns on our front porch, we settled for donning four trees and the mantle, and putting out a few holiday pillows on the front porch benches along with an old sled adorned with greenery and ribbon.
And, guess what? We are still basking in the joy of the Season, and there won’t be nearly as much to put away on New Year’s Day!
Here are a few quick and easy decorating tips to help you break free from the “Griswold mentality” while still having enough touches of Christmas to make your home feel festive.
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Put a few pinecones into a glass bowl and use as a holiday centerpiece or in a bathroom–easy and pretty.
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Trim your tree with only white lights and stems of baby’s breath and celebrate the beauty of simplicity.
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Take a few pieces of costume jewelry from your drawer and place them into goblets to accent your Christmas dinner table–pearls look especially nice spilling out of a goblet.
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Borrow one of your children’s wooden sleds and prop it up next to the front door. Tie a red or gold ribbon to it, and voila! You have a great front porch accent.
For more ideas on decorating shortcuts, pick up a copy of Christmas Shortcuts by Adeline Rosemire. This book (that I’ve had in my library for years) features ideas and tips to give you time to enjoy the holidays. It includes simple do-it-yourself gift ideas, decorating shortcuts and easy holiday recipes.
I’m so glad I pulled that little book off the shelf and perused its pages this year. I was inspired all over again that not overdoing it is much more enjoyable for the family, and it allows me to keep my priorities in order without having a Merry Christmas meltdown.
Even if you have already accomplished the decorating of your house by this time of the month, I’m sure you still have Christmas cards to write, Christmas cookies to bake, Christmas gifts to buy and wrap, and Christmas parties to host. Why not use this same line of thinking when approaching all tinsel-tainted tasks?
Keep it simple.
And, most importantly, don’t forget to make time for Jesus. Don’t cut your devotion time short in order to accomplish your holiday “to do” list. After all, He is the reason for the season.
And, don’t skip the Christmas Eve candlelight service because you’re still trying to wrap those last few presents. Instead, throw the gifts into a few decorative bags, shove in some tissue paper, and head to church.
If we seek the “Christ” in Christmas, we’re sure to have a much merrier Christmas and be prepared to enter into the New Year overjoyed, not overwhelmed.
Pray this with me:
Father, thank You for Christmas and the reason for this season. I worship You today for all that You’ve done and all that You continue to do in my life. And, Lord, help me to keep my priorities straight, realizing that I’m too blessed to be stressed.
Lastly, Lord, help me to share Your joy, love and peace with my family, my friends and every person I encounter. In the Mighty Name of Your Son, Jesus, Amen.
