I, like many of you, have been busy de-Christmasing the house. We had a lovely Christmas, but I can’t say that I am completely satisfied. The bathroom issue was, of course, a large part of my dissatisfaction (and, no, it’s not done yet!). But it was more than that. It was really a lack of planning on my part. I really enjoy making gifts and this year, there were no handmade gifts at all. (By me, anyway. My sister-in-law made me the most beautiful scarf and I think it might be my favorite thing!) I also left out a lot of people that I love and wanted to give things to, but ended up empty handed when the time came. The people that did get gifts, got gift cards. Now, sometimes, a gift card is the best choice, but when you see the recipient all year and know the things they like, you ought to be able to come up with something (purchased or made) that suits them. I’m not on a soapbox here- I’m really just trying to sort out my feelings.

The other area I really messed up with was Christmas cards. I went to all the trouble of addressing the envelopes, writing a family letter and then completely flaking out on the purchase of postage stamps! Gaahhhh! Anyway, I can at least re-use the envelopes next year!

Anyway, as I’ve packed away my decorations, I’ve started a list. A big list that I intend to keep here in my computer and edit as the year progresses. I’ve written down the things that are important for me to do next Christmas, like craft with the kids, make candy and mail cards. I’ve written down all the people I want to give gifts to so that no one gets a “last minute” anything (or worse, nothing at all!) and I’ve started listing craft ideas for gifts. When I see a craft online that I think will make a good gift for someone on my list, I add the link to the list. I’m hoping this will help me to craft the Christmas I would like to have next year.

How about you guys? Any tips to share that will help me out?