The big fall and winter holidays are well-known for making us feel all the feels: one day we’re brimming with gratitude, the next day we’re feeling overstuffed with too many things and too much food. We take great pleasure in giving meaningful gifts only to turn around and berate ourselves for spending too much money or buying fad gifts. We look forward to spending precious time with family and then find ourselves anxiously riding out a tired disagreement that has reared its yuletide head.
Right now, before we hit the full throttle of the holidays, it’s a great time to reflect on what this time of year means to us and to set some intentions for the coming season. Trying to focus more mindfully on what’s to come and spreading out the preparations can also help us move into the new year relaxed and recharged – rather than exhausted, broke and scrambling to create a laundry list of resolutions to do things differently in 2020 (pun intended). Here are a few Klinke-inspired ideas for getting creative and getting organized so you can step into the holiday season with ease and intention:
Get Creative:
- Clear some clutter and make a meaningful gift by using old t-shirts or other clothing items to make a small blanket or scarf for someone on your list. It’s a win/win!
- As you do final yard clean up this fall, look for unique natural items to create your own decorations or table centerpieces. Dried berries, pinecones and pressed leaves are all great options. Vines that need to be cleared might be perfect for making a wreath.
- Everyone loves holiday lights. Save money and have some fun by creating simple light displays using a variety of old mason jars and candles. It’s a Pinterest holiday dream come true!
Get Organized:
- Make some extra space by giving your closet quick pre-holiday sweep. Community Action Coalition, our long-standing Koats for Kids partner, runs a free clothing center on the city’s northeast side that accepts clothing, shoes and books that are distributed to community members in need at no cost.
- Set aside a time to finally clean out that jewelry cabinet or family treasure chest. You just might find a few special items that would make much better gifts than anything that can be purchased new.
- Gather with friends and neighbors sooner than later for a holiday kick-off of sorts, before calendars get too cluttered. Create a group craft activity to help everyone get stocked with needed hostess gifts or bring your group to volunteer at a local food pantry that’s preparing for their Thanksgiving meal distribution.
Happy November from all of us at Klinke’s, Your Neighborhood Dry Cleaner. Please know how grateful we are to you for letting us serve your needs all throughout the year!
