WOAH NELLY! I’m feeling the pressure mounting! Every year I promise myself to do less, commit to less and remember what is important. But honestly life is moving at lightning speed and working in retail during the festive season has become one epic hustle! Sitting down and writing this is giving me a little time and perspective to remember the baseline – the real Joy of Christmas is celebrating the birth of Jesus – God showing his great love for us by giving us this gift.
Precious. So very precious.
It’s very easy to get swept up in the commercialism of Christmas but I wanted to plant a few more seeds…
1). Focus on the experiences rather than the presents- Light candles, go for walks together, play games. Give the gift of memories, time or home-made crafts instead of stuff this Christmas. Make mince pies, gingerbread men, sloe gin or chutney – combine the lot and you’ve got yourself a hamper!
2). Find alternative wrappings- lots of christmas wrapping paper is not recyclable so why not save and reuse wrapping paper you are given. You could use old newspaper or brown packing paper. You can always reuse cardboard boxes or even wrap gifts in a fabric or a scarf – this can become and extra bonus gift!
3). Be clear about the kinds of gifts you’d like to receive. You don’t have to be rude, just say something along the lines of ‘We’re trying to have a plastic-free Christmas, I’d love one of your plant cuttings this year’.
I pray that each blog we post has a positive ripple effect across the community, our conscious behaviours and ultimately the planet. For more Eco Friendly Christmas tips take a look at Friends of the Earth. Thank you for taking time to consider a more Eco friendly festive time and Merry Christmas to you all.
MJ x