As someone who
has always disliked the trend of the commercial establishment
to "rush the seasons" and feature Christmas displays
before we’ve even planned the Thanksgiving menu, I
find I have developed a split personality when it comes
to Christmas.
In one way, I would love
to again be the child who wakes up one morning and there
it is ... Christmas, pure and magical.
But in reality, as a grown
up, I know that to enjoy that magic, takes work and planning.
While I still don’t want to see
seasonal displays and hear holiday music out of season,
I’ve learned that the only way to enjoy and experience
the true meaning of Christmas is to start preparing in the
fall. Herewith some of my favorite organizing ideas:
1. Assign a large box or empty
dresser as a "gift repository." Anytime during
the year that you spot something that shouts, "Uncle
Fred" or "Aunt Sophie," buy it, stash it
and cross it off your Christmas gift list.
2. For those with whom you
regularly exchange gifts, ask now for several ideas as to
appropriate gifts. This also gives you an opportunity to
mention your needs. If you insist that "you don’t
need anything" then don’t complain when you receive
another of a dozen candleholders you already own. As a senior
trying to get rid of, not add to, clutter, I suggest relatives
only give me items I can wear, eat or use up.
3. Keep a running list of
what you receive and what you give. It helps plan for next
year.
4. Buy cards, holiday wrap and table
decor at the day-after-Christmas sales. Not only will you
save a bundle, but it’s easy to get an early start
on addressing cards and wrapping gifts.
5. If you stay in touch with
many out-of-town friends, a Christmas letter handwritten
or composed on the computer and then copied at the printers
keeps everyone up to date and saves time. (Hint: Keep it
brief and breezy — no long-winded stories or complaints).
6. Be sure you wrap and send off any
packages well in advance so you avoid long lines at the
post office. My Long Island relatives receive their Christmas
box when they visit at Thanksgiving, avoiding the cost and
trouble of mailing.
7. Have on hand several small "hostess"
gifts … a gaily wrapped bottle of wine, pretty coasters,
gourmet jams, etc. to take as a gift to the unexpected party
invitation or to the neighbor to whom you just want to express
holiday wishes.
8. Remember that it is the appropriateness
and thoughtfulness that makes a gift truly appreciated,
not the cost. Preparing well in advance has the added benefit
of giving you the freedom to be spontaneous with your time
... to be able to enjoy all the holiday offerings that abound
in this area: the special exhibits, shows and concerts that
make the magic of Christmas come alive once again.
Jean Cherni
is founder of Senior Living Solutions, a retirement advisory
service. Contact her at jeancherni@sbcglobal.net or
15 The Ponds, Branford 06405. H. Pearce Company REALTORS®
is a full-service real estate company with more than 100
agents and branch offices in greater New Haven and the Shoreline.
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