too early?

each year, i strive to make the holiday season a little more meaningful, relaxed and enjoyable. there is nothing more stressful than having too many things to do, and not enough time to do them, so my number one key to success during the holiday season is to start early.

the definition of early varies from year to year. this year, i briefly considered some ideas in March, and actually created my first planning spreadsheet in July. i usually won't act on anything until September at the earliest, and that's when i begin playing with ideas for handmade gifts.

my first official gift purchase this year occurred on or about October 13th, when i was birthday shopping for my neice. i stumbled across the perfect gift for my littlest nephew and it was on sale (my second key to success!) so i bought it and stashed it away in my hiding place where christmas gifts will live in secret until the tree is up and wrapping begins.

but yesterday was my first attempt at major gift purchasing - and a few of my own family members have referred to it as "disgusting". that's ok - i can take it. i rest in the peace of knowing that - unlike them - i will not be navigating the chaotic parking lots of local malls, stealing parking spots from little old ladies out of desperation, or ruthlessly picking just any old thing off of shelves just days before Christmas. besides, with or without gift shopping, i have a very busy two months ahead of me, so i might as well accomplish as much now as i possibly can.

together, matt and i crossed off a surprising amount of our list yesterday - namely, the kids - and i'll even do a little more this weekend, when i make my big trip to the area craft stores to stock up on supplies i'll need for finishing touches on handmade gifts.

and i feel quite confident in my planning, especially in knowing that in those final days before Christmas, i'll be kicking my feet up and relishing the joys of the season, which most definitely do not include struggling to find last minute gifts.

that's it for me today. i'm looking forward to a quiet evening at home - in part, figuring out what the heck to do with my growing stash of gifts that will no longer fit in said secret spot. :)