Over the past ten years or so, I guess as part of a more general lifestyle inflation, our family Christmases seem to have become a lot about getting and enjoying lovely things and going out, and less about enjoying time together. Too much unnecessary shopping and multiple ‘special’ days out, which leave everyone tired. The cost of things this year has given me a shove to want to turn it around. I feel really positive about doing this, and think it might make for a less stressful and more peaceful Christmas.
We’ve decided on a few things already. Trying to do more stuff locally (using the farm shop instead of supermarket for meat, local panto instead of a London show), and inviting friends over for board game and brisket nights in lieu of presents or meals out. DD is having a Christmas baking day with a foodie friend, which they are really looking forward to. We are keen to go to services at our local church which we’ve not done for years ( I normally attend a Quaker meet with DD on Sundays, part of the inspiration for the change). There won’t be any online shops for decorations, Christmas pyjamas or other lovely but needless Christmas stuff, and we will make a food bank donation instead.
Any other thoughts or ideas would be welcomed.