Are we tired of hearing that “Christmas will look a lot different this year"? I sure am, and yes WE KNOW. As someone who loves Christmas more than anything, this is particularly tough for me. For as long as I can remember Christmas has been a time of year for me to spread all of the joy, love, and happiness to those in my life. There is nothing I love more than spending time with family, friends, and colleagues and I am truly heartbroken that I can’t do that this year.

I’ve always loved sharing festive content on all my social channels but this year it feels even more impactful than ever. My hope is that I can lift peoples spirits around the holidays because I know they won’t be easy this year for a lot of us

• CREATE A CHRISTMAS BUCKET LIST // I do this every year and although this year is a bit different, there’s still lots of festive fun to be had! Why not create your own bucket list with your partner/kids/pals? It’s good to have lots to look forward to! Customize it with your people.

• FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR HOME // We’re spending more time than ever at home these days and I am sure we can all agree we are quickly finding the things we dislike or frustrate us about our spaces. Set aside a night or weekend to do a big clean and/or rearrange some things to really love your space during the holidays!

• GO ALL OUT ON THE CHRISTMAS DECOR // Well, we do this every year but took things to the next level this year. We got our biggest and best tree yet this year! We added lots more lights & fun on outside and on our windows too. Otis honestly ooh’s and aww’s all day at our Christmas decorations. Love seeing how many more homes are decked out this year.

• BAKE ALL THE HOLIDAY GOODIES // I do baking every day, but this somehow seems like something I am squeezing in last minute (since the weekends are usually jam packed celebrating with family and friends!) I started doing some this weekend and have lots more coming in the next few weeks.

• HAVE A FANCY FESTIVE NIGHT // Hey, I won’t lie - I am all for rocking tights and a big sweater every day, but I’ve got to say I am really missing dressing up. I always have a few festive outfits I rock during the holidays for parties and such, and wil really miss dressing up this year. But, why not get ready, just because? I plan to put on some of my favourite festive dresses and do my hair & make up at least a few times!

• GET FRESH PLANTS &/OR FLOWERS // I am a firm believer that having fresh blooms in the house are an instant mood booster! Since we’re at home so much, why not treat yoursef to flowers and some new plants (that don’t die easily!) Succulents and ferns are great for winter too!

• WATCH ALL YOUR FAVE CHRISTMAS MOVIES // I mean, this goes without saying! But, even more than ever before we need our Christmas movies to cheer us up. If you need some ideas, you can see my December watch calendar above! I have to wait until a little closer to watch my absolute faves like Christmas Vacation, Home Alone, Family Stone & White Christmas!

• MAIL CHRISTMAS CARDS // It’s tough to find time to do this one! You’ve got to find the perfect cards, get everyones addresses, stamps & then write them out! My advice is to stock up on cards, stickers, washii tape and all the goodies and make your own little Christmas card box! Also, if you don’t have one you should definitely get an address book because it will be so nice for years to come!

• HAVE DATE NIGHT AT HOME // I know there aren’t as many opportunities as we’d like to spend time with our loved ones, but even just making a little simple plan together is nice. Pete and I try to plan our nights to spend time together and have something to look forward to during our down time (which is even more special after having kids!) Movie nights, making a yummy cocktail, doing some blogging/creative work, reading or just chillin’

• MAKE THE MOST FESTIVE CHARCUTERIE BOARD // Charcuterie for two? Yes please! You all know I am a charcuterie enthusiast and this is one of my favourite things to make at our annual Christmas party that we host. Since we can’t do that this year, I’ve decided to still go all out and make a really fun & festive charcuterie for just Pete & I. I already chose the date (next Friday!) see, #datenight.

I’m thinking of you all, I am sending you all of the love. This is not easy, it’s okay to be sad about it (I am learning that) but all we can do is #stayhome and make the best of our quiet time at home together.