Christmas morning is something that we all look forward to, but maybe no one as much as us moms (and dads). We love seeing the faces of our children or our loved ones light up as they unwrap gifts and gather together. It is a special moment that I wouldn’t trade for anything! But over the years, I have learned how to streamline and simplify our Christmas decor and the way the morning unfolds, in order to be present in the moment. Here are some of my best tips:
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-Do a breakfast or brunch prep the night before: Of course we all love fresh cinnamon rolls or eggs and fruit, but many of these things can be prepped early on. I recommend cutting any fresh fruit (except bananas) the night before and putting it in a glass snap top container. Add a few drops of lemon juice to prevent any browning, and slice the bananas the morning of, which will keep them from getting soggy in the dish. For yeast or cinnamon rolls, they are easy to do the night before with just the dough or prepped in a glass pyrex, and bake them the morning of so they’re fresh and warm! Even raw eggs can be mixed with chopped veggies, cheese, and heavy cream, and put in a Tupperware overnight to be turned into an easy scramble in the morning.
-Move a trash can into the general gift-opening area, along with scissors! You will be able to really enjoy the gift-opening if you aren’t having to hop up and down a million times to get the things you may need. Of course, you don’t want a trashcan in all your pretty photos, so either use a little basket or tote, or move it out of the frame :)
-Set your table to be the place to gather after or before gift openings: The more comfortable your guests feel, the longer they will linger, and you will get the easy, beautiful and restful morning you long for! I like to layer my table with lots of different textures, and linens that are washable if little ones are going to be dining with us. That way, you don’t need to worry about things being too ‘fancy’ to enjoy. Opt for neutrals, and leave enough space for people to move around and chat. Always have an extra place setting set aside, in case an unexpected guest arrives and needs a place to sit!
-Cue up the playlist: Have friends and family put together some of their favorite holiday tunes before the big day, and put them into a super fun playlist! Have it ready to roll (and put it on repeat) before the festivities get underway, and set the mood with a scented candle, a crock pot of cocoa (add lids to cups for little ones to avoid spills near all the presents), and plenty of pillows or floor cushions for all the people you love!