Time to “de-Santa”
Now that Christmas is behind us comes the time to prepare for the holiday wrapup — New Year’s. I began a tradition long ago that I deemed “de-Santa’ing” the house.
In the few days between the two important events, I begin to pack up all Christmas-type decorations, including Santas, snowmen, and anything “cutesy.” Left are the colors of the season in runners, crystal bowls of sparkling ornaments, and silver platters and candlesticks. I seek to transform the house from the warmth of Christmas to the elegance of New Year’s.
But this strategy has a secondary (and more ulterior) motive. By putting away the Santa-type decorations, I am edging toward the “return of normalcy” to the home after the holidays, as well as spreading out the work that is inherent in packing up everything.
It works wonderfully, and has become a standard in my holiday planning. So tonight, all the Santas are gone, but the house still exudes holiday warmth (and I will have it much easier in a couple days).
Try this strategy, you’ll see how well it works. Oh, and may I be the first to wish you, Happy New Year! 
6:15 pm
Happy New Year, Harry!
I will remember this tip when we someday host a New Years Party again. Since the Christmas decorations went up so late and we have family visiting for a late Christmas (we just opened gifts with them on the 28th), I’m saving the big take-down for the weekend.
Blame it on the preschool teacher in me, but I wait to put out my snowmen until January. Yes, I will soon be putting my snowmen out on display. It gives me something cheery to look forward to when the Christmas decorations are put away.
January = snowmen
February = hearts
March = green & shamrocks
April = early spring flowers (And wherever Easter falls in there, I substitute eggs and bunnies)
May = later spring flowers (flags for Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day)
June & July = red, white, and blue
August = Sunflowers
September = apples
October & November = harvest theme
December = Christmas
Granted, much of this is for the front porch and entry of our home. I change out my garden flag, windsock, wreath, and other decor with the seasons.
6:18 pm
Oh that’s perfect! The snowmen are great! (And so glad everyone can post again!) But I think I got the dang spam under control (but I do know where online you can order *any* drug you may seek)