You're Welcome, Future Christmas Kate

There are just so many things to do and think about at Christmas. And I'm going to take full ownership, it's all on me. There are traditions that literally no one cares about but me, but I like it so I'm here to make my life easier. I love the decorations and outfits and books and it all but it's a lot of work. I did a couple of things as I wrapped up the holiday season that I know future Kate is going to toast a glass of champagne to.

Decorations

I don't like to go over board with decorations and for me it's the little touches that mean the most to me. This year, I decorated using the frames that are usually in my house but I put in pictures of from previous Christmases. Those priceless screaming Santa pictures no longer have to be forgotten on my phone. It was a quick and easy way to decorate without going over board.

You're Welcome, Future Kate: I put the pictures at the back of the frame, so all I have to do next year is rearrange the pictures. 

Christmas Outfits

I love a good matching outfit for my kids. I will do it until they fight me on it. After Christmas last year, I bought a matching shirt and dress in the next size up and put them in the back of my closet. It was such a gift to find them when I started thinking about what they would wear this year. I did it again this year and found matching shirt and dress on Clearance at JCrew Factory. I bought them both for $30! The dress was originally $70! That's the best part of shopping now for next year, it's all on clearance. If you aren't finding what you are looking for online, call a store and they will usually ship it to you for free.

You're Welcome Future Kate: You already have outfits for next year and I even put Elliott's Bow on her dress so you don't forget it! 

Christmas Books

Each year, I love adding to our Christmas Book collection. I always add one that I think we need and then one that matches the kid's interests for the year. A lot of the Christmas books are now on sale so I already picked up two new books for next year.

You're Welcome, Future Kate: I also already wrapped them. 

Gifts

Before I start, I'm not this good that I've already bought gifts. But I definitely have already started to plant the seed about this gift idea. My nieces and nephews have all of the toys and books that they could want and so do my kids. I've already started to let my family know that next year, my gift is going to be a family fun day that I plan and organize. By sharing my plan now, it won't be a surprise when I show up with no gifts and a full day planned. 

You're Welcome, Future Kate: I already started a list of ideas for both Toledo and Cincinnati. 

This might feel like a lot right now, but here's the deal. I'm tired and all I want to do is look at my phone. I'll just be a little productive as I look on my phone. There's already so much money and time spent on Christmas, that this work saves me now so that I can really enjoy my family later. This year I found myself less stressed as I packed to visit our families and take down decorations. 

How do you help your Future Self out?