HOORAY! THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS HERE!
Can you believe it? November has arrived. With it comes all the holiday goodness, and I am genuinely excited. This year will look a bit different for us: instead of spending every spare moment decorating and baking, much of my time will be devoted to decluttering, packing boxes, and getting things fixed so we can put a “house for sale” sign in the yard. Yes — we are moving.
I NEED A HOLIDAY MIRACLE!
We’re relocating three hours away to another state to plant a church and begin a new chapter. We’re thrilled, but you know how I feel about moving. Could we have picked a worse time to sell our house? Midwinter, with an uncertain market, and a long list of twenty years’ worth of unfinished projects — it feels overwhelming. We could definitely use a miracle.
A NEW ADVENTURE
Moving out of Portland after so many years is a big change. I love the kitchen I designed for myself in this house, but I’m also ready to downsize and simplify. Starting over in a smaller home feels freeing, and I’m looking forward to sharing the downsizing process and fresh beginnings with you.
EASTER EGGS IN MY LIVING ROOM
This past weekend I decided to do some pre-holiday / moving cleaning. I took my vacuum and dust rag into the living room and uncovered a few surprises: stray Christmas tree needles behind a chair and even a plastic Easter egg tucked behind a stack of books (yes, I ate the jelly beans!). It was a clear sign I needed a deep clean. For me, cleaning is the first step to feeling ready for the holidays — I struggle to decorate when the house isn’t at least reasonably tidy.
CREATE BEAUTY IN THE SEASON
So hold tight, friends. Even with moving boxes appearing, I’m committed to creating a memorable holiday season for my family. We don’t always have perfect circumstances for an ideal holiday, but that won’t stop us. I have many simple, creative ideas planned that won’t demand lots of time or money.
Despite the economy, transitions, and the bumps in the road we all face, we can still create beauty in the season. Perfection isn’t required for something to be memorable. Our holiday will be simple, creative, and authentic.
I’m already brainstorming holiday ideas at my kitchen table — ready to dive into the festivities! Are you ready to get going?
Let the holidays begin!
NEW FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Starting this week, I’ll feature a special personally picked HOLIDAY LINKY LOVE post every Friday. If you publish a lovely holiday post during the week, you might see your link highlighted. I’ll be searching blogland each week for the best inspiration. If you think a post deserves a mention, feel free to email a link to me by Thursday night (subject line: HOLIDAY LINKY LOVE) — I’ll consider it if I have room to include it.
BLOG NEWS:
ANNOUNCING A GREAT GIVEAWAY TOMORROW…
Come back Tuesday for all the details! I’m excited about new blogging adventures and collaborations with several sites and businesses this season. I’ll share more information soon.
- I’m honored to be partnering with the lovely ladies of Moms Unite! for the holidays — thank you to everyone for your support and encouragement.
- We’re also excited to introduce the HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE — a curated resource to help with seasonal ideas and inspiration.
