It is hard to believe that we are entering the final third of the year once again. It seems like just weeks ago, we were packing up Christmas 2021 and looking to the year ahead. With that said, I remember clearly making mental notes that there are some things I plan to organise much further in advance for next Christmas. Coupled with the cost of living crisis at the moment, I have decided that I’ll start my Christmas shopping a little early.
That’s not to say I will be buying gifts early this year – that is not a wise idea for me, especially with two small children who grow out of toys (and ideas) quicker than I can say ‘Kris Kringle’. Last year I treated myself to a new Christmas tree. I ordered it at the end of September. It didn’t arrive until December! It solved the storage conundrum but it was an anxious wait. However I was pleased that I ordered it so far in advance to spread the cost.
This year I have more plans for my outdoor Christmas lights and intend to make some more purchases in the coming months.
When the card shops start to stock Christmas cards in August I do roll my eyes, but know I’ll soon enough find myself in December and wishing I had just ticked that task off the list already. This year I will buy my cards early!
And one thing I might start to do a tiny bit earlier this year, is work through my list of Christmas films. I will probably start on the Hallmark-style ones in early November – those films where the lead character is called Holly and has blatantly been filmed in summer so you can see the actors are suffering in their coats & scarves. That will free me up for the really good ones during advent.
One thing I will strive NOT to do this year, is book up all of my Christmas weekends far in advance. Yes I plan to NOT plan too! This year my son is starting school and we will now be slaves to the school holidays and weekends. It will be important to free up time just to spend at home and savour the season. Maybe a spontaneous visit to see Santa or tour London’s Christmas lights on a double decker bus.
What do you plan to do early this year?