5 ways I’m simplifying the Holidays

“This post is sponsored by Carter’s; however, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.”

It’s the most wonderful time of the year.  There isn’t much I love more than the Holiday Season.  I feel like most people in the world decide to be nicer for a few months and all just feels right.  I’ve learned some ways to really simplify the Holiday Season, making sure it’s beautifully and memorable for my family and stress-free.

1.  Lessen financial stress.

There is so much stress during the Holidays connected with finances.  Most people feel like they have to buy ‘x’ amount of people gifts. However, they just don’t have the extra money to do so.  Even with meeting kid’s expectation, we are often willing to go into debt for this one day.

I was this way for a long time. Although for the past few years, we have only bought what we could afford and not cause financial strain for any months to come.  Getting a few meaningful gifts for our kids rather than a million things to open has helped them become more grateful as well.  The day is less about stuff and more about the meaning of the day and time with family.

2.  Don’t cook it all.

Whether you are hosting or going to someone’s house, don’t try to be superwoman.  No one cares and we don’t get an award when it’s over.  I have done this too many years as well, but lately I’ve been making 2 things, and asking others to help.  Just focus on the turkey, and ask everyone to bring sides and desert.  This year I am making a side and desert. This is majorly simplifying my stress.  People love to help out, just let them know how they can.

3.  Skip the cards/photos.

We do not send out Christmas cards.  For me, it is another thing to add to the “to-do” list.  We get our family pictures taken in the Fall every year so, we like to share those with friends and family. I don’t go through the hassle of getting cards made and mailed.

I still love to dress my kids up to look super handsome for Christmas programs and special gatherings with family.  I just snap a bunch of pictures with my phone to remember those great “in the moment” memories.

Carters is my favorite for my toddler.  Their holiday styles are just the cutest.  I am obsessed with these adorable looks on my youngest. They offer tons of variety for any event you may be attending.  Being affordable is a must for me during this season, and Carters offers affordable clothes & PJ’s at a great price point without sacrificing quality.

One thing I am a sucker for is snapping a picture of my kids in Christmas PJ’s.  Carter’s has the best PJs. Not just because they’re affordable, but because they’re comfortable and
stylish.  Here are the pair I picked up for my youngest this year.

Why is he sooooo cute?!!! LOL!

I love a good black Friday deal and Carters offers some amazing sales starting 11/17.

Carter’s and OshKosh B’gosh are giving away over $700,000 in Dash Cash to the first 100 people to visit their local Carter’s or OshKosh B’gosh store for the Dash In to Win Sweepstakes. The sweepstakes will be held on Black Friday (11/23 or 11/24 – depending on when the store opens after Thanksgiving). Customers will need to check www.carters.com/stores to confirm what date the sweepstakes will be held at their nearest location. Plus, customers will receive a gift from Shutterfly on their $40+ purchase that day. Visit carters.com/dashintowin for official rules.

One of the most important pieces for our family about this time of year is giving back, and we look for multiple ways to do that.  Carter’s believes that every child deserves a good night so they are partnering with Pajama Program, an organization that provides children new pajamas from November 1 st – December 31 st . Customers can help by donating a pair of new pajamas in store or make a monetary donation at check out (in store or online). Carter’s will match up to 100,000 pairs of pajamas. Your local community benefits directly from your support.

Make sure you use this amazing coupon while shopping: Take 20% off your purchase of $40 or more in store or online through 12/31/17. Some exclusions apply: www.carters.com/couponpolicy

• In store code: 070716
• Online code: CART4198

Click here to find your nearest Carters.

4.  Get the pull- aparts.

Yep, I love baking cookies with my kids during this time of year, and I believe it creates some great memories for them.  However, I am not making a ton of cookies from scratch this year.  I am simplifying, and this is an easy way to do that.  There is such a large variety of pre-made cookie doughs and pull-apart cookies at our local grocery store.  All I need to grab is a few fun decorations and we have ourselves a ball.  Let’s be honest, this is the only part that our kids really care about anyways.

5.  Pick names.

This is back to gifts and financial pressure, but I know a few families that do this and it majorly simplifies the holidays for them.  For those of you who have big families, and feel the pressure to get something for you sister, brother-n-law, each of their kids and the list goes on…picking names is for you.  Rather than getting 10 people a bunch of random scarfs, when you pick a name that is the person you focus on buying for during that year.  This frees you up to be more thoughtful with your gift while lessening the stress of making sure everyone is covered.

I hope these tips help you simplify your holidays and spend more time and energy enjoying the beautiful moments and people around you.  This does not have to be a stressful time of year.  Give yourself some grace and make a choice to enjoy all of your many blessings this year.

For more on saving money, check out ” How to save big on Christmas gifts this year! “