December prep before the holiday rush is something I always try to do every year, even if I still end up becoming a last minute person. December has always been one of my favorite months because Christmas is my favorite holiday. Ever since I was young, I would always look forward to it, especially because it was the time of the year when I received gifts from my family. There was always something exciting about the season. The lights, the music, the food, the gatherings, and that feeling that something happy is about to happen.
But as I grew older, I realized that December is beautiful, but it can also be draining.
Preparing My Christmas Gift List
Before the holiday rush begins, I always try to prepare early. I make a list of the people I want to give gifts to, like my family, friends, the kids in the family, my cousins’ children, and my godchildren. Every year, I tell myself that I will start early and avoid the Christmas rush. But somehow, I still end up doing things at the last minute.
I think a lot of people can relate to that. No matter how much we plan, December always has a way of becoming busy so fast.
The Reality of the Holiday Rush
Living in the city also makes the holiday season feel even more hectic. Traffic becomes heavier because many people from the province come here to celebrate Christmas with their loved ones. Malls are full, grocery lines are long, and even a quick errand can take more time than expected.
It can be stressful, especially when you still have gifts to buy, food to prepare, and family plans to think about.
Still, there is something about the Christmas rush that I secretly enjoy. Before, I would panic because I was doing everything late. Now, I think I do it partly on purpose because I love the feeling of being outside during the holiday season. I love seeing the lights, the decorations, the people carrying gifts, and the malls staying open late.
One thing that works for me is going to the mall late at night, especially because mall hours are usually extended in December. Sometimes, they close around midnight, and I actually enjoy shopping during those hours. For groceries, we try to do it on weekdays when the mall has just opened because it is usually less crowded.
Our Christmas Family Tradition
One of the things that became part of our Christmas preparation is making Halayang Ube and Pudding. Ever since my husband became the head of the family after my father in law passed away, we have been the ones continuing this family tradition.
It is a recipe passed down from his grandparents to his father, and now to him. I think there is something special about that. It is not just food anymore. It is a memory, a responsibility, and a way of keeping a part of the family alive during Christmas.
Christmas Vacation Memories
I also miss the time when I used to work for my Australian employer because I would usually have two or three weeks of Christmas vacation. I would spend those days watching Christmas movies from Hallmark and Netflix, playing PS4, and just enjoying the slow days at home.
It was simple, but it made me happy. Maybe that is also why I love Christmas so much. It gives me that feeling of warmth, rest, and comfort.
Preparing Emotionally for December
But December is not always light and happy. It can also be overwhelming. There are things to buy, people to think about, expenses to manage, and expectations that sometimes feel too much.
That is why I think December prep before the holiday rush is not only about gifts, groceries, and schedules. It is also about preparing ourselves emotionally.
We do not always have to force ourselves to be cheerful just because it is Christmas. We can love the season and still feel tired. We can be excited and still feel overwhelmed. We can enjoy the holidays and still need quiet moments in between.
I think that is something I want to remember more this year. Rest is also part of preparation.
A Gentle Reminder Before December Starts
So before the holiday rush begins, I want to remind myself to slow down a little. Make the list, buy the gifts, prepare the food, enjoy the lights, and continue the traditions. But also breathe. Rest when needed. Say no when things feel too much. Choose peace when possible.
Because Christmas will always be beautiful to me, but I also want to experience it without losing myself in the rush.
