January

So what can I do in the upcoming month to prepare for next year?

1a. There's the usual buying of wrapping paper, bows and tags. I guess I could inventory what I have on hand and look for gaps. I recycle bows and bags. I know I'm low on red and green bows. I could also throw out old ratty stuff I know I won't use again.

1b. I wish I had the where-with-all to choose gifts for next year while the sales are good. Who knows what anyone will want?

1c. This year I saved money by printing Christmas post cards. I already had the cards from a previous project. Postcard postage was only 27 cents. I also saved paper by not using envelopes. My postcards also saved the postman space in his mailbag.

I could start by printing next year's cards, now. I sent a picture of myself and my husband at Christmas, this year. Next year, I may use a picture of my front door with a wreath on it, or my hearth with decorations, or my toy snowmen, etc.,etc. I could address the ones I know I'll send now, with the hopes of meeting some new folks to send a card next year! That's in line with my second goal, keeping Christmas spirit all year.