This Season's New Motto

Alright, it's evident that with Thanksgiving coming soon (in what, like just over a week? eeeek), the need for holiday card ideas is upon us. Believe me, I know this to be true and I feel your desperation! I have yet to figure out what I'm doing either. I think I mentioned right around Halloween costume time that I can get super-crafty when I want to, didn't I? And even when I don't want to actually. Sometimes the craft bug bites at the most inopportune times. And if you don't believe me, just ask my husband. When he hears the printer printing in overdrive and sees the paper cutter come out, I know he cringes. He can't hide the fear in his eyes. At least he's learned after all these years NOT to say a word during the week it usually takes me to get the cards done. Until he compliments the final product which is always a heart-warming holiday card that beautifully showcases our lovely daughters, offers a simple sentiment, and is in the mail in time to reach even the out-of-state friends and family.

Have I been a total wreck over our cards in past years? Yes. But, in my defense, I have learned through my mistakes and have figured out ways to reduce the stress as well. How that's done is different every year. Each year my life is a little different so there's never just one way to make it easy on myself. I have to think it through and figure that out each season. I have gone from making my own cards (adhering each photo to each card) to having cards printed at a print shop, to printing them out on my computer, to using Shutterfly and everything in between. I have not however, done much 'detail' work as far as bows, stamps, etc. just so you know (I will say kudos to those of you who find it in you to do that)  because I always play it super simple and let the photo do the talking not to mention, keep any added work out of it. It's a motto I've learned to stick to. We all know our limits.

SO, what does all this mean to you? It means that we're all in this crazed frenzy of holiday card pressure together. But, I'm not saying that to discourage you. I'm merely expressing that you are not alone and hope that will ease your mind and remind you that it really doesn't have to be stressful. Yes, I'm speaking English. It doesn't! And that's this years motto, kay? Say it with me, "This year, my holiday cards will not stress me out", breathe and repeat this affirmation until it seeps into your very being. You must believe it to make it work.  And first thing tomorrow I will begin to post tips and ideas for your photo cards. And I will be asking for your ideas and success stories too, OK? We are in this together moms. And we will prevail.

Comments

[Peetsmom]

"This year, my holiday cards will not stress me out"

"This year, my holiday cards will not stress me out"

"This year, my holiday cards will not stress me out"

As long as I have you baby!

[Kelly Bera]

You know, I am famous for putting the same frenzy into my holidays, and not just Christmas cards, but birthday parties, invitations, etc. But I too have learned from my mistakes in the past and know how early I need to start to get it all done. My biggest tip? I have a 3 ring binder that holds ideas, designs and layouts for the entire year. If I have an idea for a Christmas card, but its only April, well I just jot down everything and put it in that book. Instead of frantically looking through random craft magazine ideas in November, I have my own book of ideas personally tailored to fit my style, my family and my abilities! And yes, I already have 3 layouts for the photography, sentiments and design for this Christmas. So now it all depends on which photography session with my kids turns out the best!!!!
You have great ideas for this Tracey! This is the kind of stuff that really motivates me and gets me inspired!

[Much More Than A Mom]

I just finished designing our card for this year in photoshop. With a new baby, I have no time to write so they're just a 4x6 printed on photo paper. Maybe I'll email you a demo (with our 'real' names removed...)

[maile]

Thank you for this! It's so easy to get swept up in the to-do list and then forget why you're doing it all in the first place.

[Christie]

Um, holiday cards? We call ours Happy New Years Cards and one year they were Rememeber Groundhog's Day cards. I have friend who sends lovely Valentine's Day cards. Her's always ends up with a place of honor for a couple of weeks because it is one of only a few.

[Michelle]

Thank you for posting this! I am starting to feel the flutters about how it is all going to turn out and I am looking very forward to your insight. I actually had a friend start asking me about my holiday cards last weekend and said she couldn't wait to receive it. I just need to keep repeating "This year, my holiday cards will not stress me out". Thanks Tracy! :)

[Stacy]

Well, I was being proactive. I had a cute idea, I took the cute picture, I did the cute card. Unfortunately my hubby did not like it, and he usually goes along with me. I'll e-mail it to you Tracey. It should probably be in your card rules as to how creative you want to be and the comfort zones of those that will receive your card.