Packing up Christmas

Your home should tell the story of who you are, and be a collection of what you love. – Nate Berkus

Hey there, friends! Today, let's chat about something we all face as the holiday season winds down—the bittersweet task of packing away those Christmas decorations. Join me as we cover five down-to-earth tips, to make this process not only doable but even a tad enjoyable.

Photo by Acton Crawford on Unsplash

1. Timing is Everything

As the holiday whirlwind settles, the prospect of packing up decorations might feel a bit overwhelming. I get it. So, let's approach it with care. Choose a specific time, carve out a cozy corner, maybe brew a cup of tea, queue up your favorite tunes, or dive into an audiobook. Make it a gentle experience.

2. Cultivate Your Mindset

Packing up decorations can unleash a wave of emotions, right? The ornament from a departed loved one, the quirky Santa on a Harley that your mother-in-law insists on, or the handmade treasures from your kids' grade school years. Let those feelings happen, but don't let them weigh you down. Save the nostalgia for next season; for now, let's focus on the task at hand with a calm mindset.

3. The “Keep/Pack” and “Discard/Let Go” Piles

As you lovingly pack away your festive treasures, consider if each item brings with it positivity or, perhaps, some not-so-great feelings. It's okay to let go of things that no longer serve you. In a world full of negativity, your holiday decorations should bring joy, not stress.

4. Be Aware of Small Wins in the Process

Celebrate the small victories. Each ornament carefully wrapped, every string of lights stowed away—it's a victory for simplicity and a step toward a clutter-free haven. Allow yourself to feel gratitude for what you've accomplished, finding joy and calm in the newfound cleared space.

5. Simplicity

Embrace the simplicity of the process. Be kind to yourself. Swift decisions are your secret weapon. Forget perfectionism; focus on creating a haven that brings clarity and leaves you feeling a little lighter.

Now, here's a practical approach I like to take:

• Gather all the decor in one spot, like your trusty dining room table.

• Take a slow walk through your home, scanning each nook for those sneaky decorations you missed.

• Grab your storage bins, give them a quick clean, and collect any packing materials you might need. Pro tip: Used wrapping paper works wonders for protecting delicate ornaments.

• Group similar items together—think outdoor decor, kitchenware, greenery, and breakables.

• Before sealing up your storage containers, tape a list on the outside detailing the contents. Future you will thank you!

And there you have it, a practical and gentle guide to bidding adieu to your festive decor. Here's to setting ourselves up for success in the next holiday season.

Wishing you a calm and clutter-free transition into the new year!