Doesn't make you happy? Don't do it. Cleaning, undecorating, sewing

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Hi! So glad you're here. I'm giving you an update about "The Great Christmas Mistake of 2024" in this video. Also, we'll spend the day together having fun. I'd love to hear what you think!

[@Sx-lf6ou]

Im a mum of two sons, who have their own home and one has children, i am learning as each year passes (4 since becoming a grandmother) that my role as the paternal grandmother is so different than the maternal side, it is hard but i look back how i was when younger and i would always turn to my mum first and my husband would always do what i wanted. My mum inlaw loved Christmas but i just wanted to be home with my children opening presents on the day, i now understand how she must have felt at the time but I didn’t think of her, i wish she was here now so i could tell her.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I wish I could change a few things from my younger years with my in-laws too. It took is some time to get used to each other. Thankfully, by the time they passed away, all was well and I really miss them. I think it takes women longer to get used to the way another family does it. I wish you could talk to her too. Wouldn’t that be wonderful?

[@ErinwithArt]

I love your baking soda tip and how you converted a powdered sugar container for it. I'll have to try that out.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

It works so well! I bet you love it. 😊

[@donnamclaughlin9215]

Great to hear you had that discussion. We should not feel rushed and stressed. It is a time of peace and hope.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

So true!

[@peggyboehnlein8755]

My tree stays up till Feb. Everything else was put away! It just keeps light and pretty thru January!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I did that one year. It was very nice!

[@drsusieg]

What a wonderful woman you are! You took responsibility for your part and will make different decisions next year. That is a lesson we all need.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Oh, how kind. I really appreciate you saying that. Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

[@minniel6123]

Just found your channel and enjoying it. I will share my Christmas downsizing that I started last year. Bought a smaller tree & left it decorated. Slid it to the front closet that's a double & threw a tablecloth over it. Tree decorating & undecorating solved😊

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

That is awesome! I wish I had a closet to do that in. It sounds so easy. Welcome. I’m glad you’re here!

[@dtmc4509]

I am finding that everyone, especially the kids get so much that they really dont focus on each gift. They focus on opening the gifts in excitement and maybe they really arent as excited about the things we get them as we are? And your daughter hit it right on point. I am the grandma, i am not in charge of making christmas wondrous for my grandchildren like i did my own. Thats their parents' jobs. I am glad i am not alone in my thinking. A lot of it was me letting go of the reins, so to speak. The control I guess. Great videos

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Yeah, it’s an adjustment to think of myself not being in charge, especially because we all live in my home. But she’s right… it’s her turn. What a relief!

[@cindyoconnell2471]

That has been the problem with the last two generations! I was a kid of the 60s and 70s and most people got many fewer presents and as a result, we really cherished our things, and it was much healthier!

[@cindyoconnell2471]

I can believe your granddaughter accusing you of taking her $10 bill. My son actually thought I might take his change from his piggy bank! I never gave him any indication that I would ever do such a thing! Kids’ minds really run with some non-sensical ideas which you can’t allow to hurt your feelings.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

@ aren’t they funny? Love these kids so much!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

@ I completely agree. I feel blessed to have grown up during that time. Things were simpler for us in some regards.

[@stacyb6461]

New here. You have a beautiful home. How blessed your children and grands are to have your support. I want my children to know they will always have a place with us also (with respect). For me, I was kinda pushed out the house as soon as I finished college. It taught me a lot and I'm doing quite fine but I want to be a bridge if my kids need it later in life (they are all under 13) . Again, respectfully though and with them doing there part

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Thanks! We love them and are so grateful that we have room for theme. The cost of housing is so high and if they didn’t have us, I don’t know what would happen to them. We’re glad we can help for now. Welcome to my channel!

[@stacyb6461]

@ it is indeed high! Ughh Thank you!

[@funniful]

I’m glad to hear you and your daughter had a nice amiable talk about Christmas. ❤

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

It was a good time and really helped!

[@tg3609]

I would love to see a video on the freezer meal ideas! I am always looking for something new and yummy. I really like your idea of opening the gifts on Christmas Eve. For me, I send their gift (only 1 gift and I usually get all of them the same thing which is a movie ticket that includes the drink and popcorn) to their homes to open and then I cook a big family breakfast around noon on Christmas Day. I have really simplified Christmas and try to focus more on Jesus than gifts.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

That's a great idea, I love that you do it that way! That’s where I’m headed. I’ll put the freezer idea on my list. 😀

[@Truth1561]

It's all about mindset, isn't it? I used to hate emptying the dishwasher- until one day I timed myself doing it. I realised how quick it was and I reminded myself how lucky I am to have a dishwasher! Now I empty the dishwasher whilst I'm cooking my oatmeal and making my first cup of the tea of the day. It's so satisfying and I feel as though my breakfast is a reward lol. I leave my tree up at least to 12th night, but last year I left it until the middle if January as I was feeling down and the tree gives me a lot of pleasure. It's the 7th today and I'll be taking mine down this weekend.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

It really is! It's how we look at things and how we respond to them that changes everything. So glad to hear from you!

[@aarntz61]

Dear Rozanne, I'm so glad you and your daughter made good decisions now. And you did a lot on that video! So much work, I admire your strength. Good to see your lovely smile, bye bye ❤ Yo 🙏🫂

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Thank you so much! 😊 😀

[@laurab8547]

I enjoyed this so much! I usually watch younger women because not many people my age seem to be vlogging on KZbin. So I hope you will keep going.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I’m so glad you enjoyed it. I will be here!

[@alexisfreeman5481]

I love your channel I love what you talk about you have a lot of things to be grateful for you've got a beautiful home and everything and great kids great great grandchildren but let's not forget about the people in the devastation in North Carolina with no homes and a lot of lives that were lost now the Amish from Pennsylvania are there building tiny houses for those people how great how wonderful how generous❤❤😊😊😊😊

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

That was such a tragedy. I really feel for them. I have heard what the Amish are doing. It’s a marvelous thing!

[@shernandez2276]

Live and learn right. Sounds like your daughter was on board too. 😊 Mama you made me tired just watching you. 😅 Enjoyed sharing your day with you.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Yes, my daughter was right with me. I really should have talked to her earlier. She’s a wonderful person and she does love me very much. I’m so glad you are here with me!

[@karinaa1008]

Thinking I can do more than I actually can, I know that feeling all too well. Just try to look at what you did achieve. Tomorrow is another day and the work will still be there. Love your videos. ❤

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

So true - I need to remember that. I appreciate hearing from you!!

[@deborahallen4169]

For me, I find doing things in stages works great. However, oftentimes I feel depressed about taking down decorations, but once I get started I get motivated and keep going. This year I decided I wanted to downsize my decorations. It was a big job, but it paid off. I got two huge storage boxes down to 1 and got some other things out of our attic and got it down to a minimum. It is so pleasant to go in there. We have a great walk-in attic which makes it so enjoyable to use, but I try to keep it very minimal what I store in there. I’ve been working on simplifying our home with a reasonable minimalist approach for several years as I learn to let go. It is so freeing.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

It sounds like you've found a great way to simplify your life! Congratulations to you for making such great progress with your decorations. That’s a lot of work. 😀

[@valerierandall3640]

I always enjoy when you check in with us - you got so much done!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Thanks! I truly appreciate you watching and supporting me!

[@Mythriftedhome214]

Rozanne, loving your vlog style! You’re so welcoming and generous❤

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

That's so sweet, thank you!

[@knitty781]

Holidays can be quite overwhelming. And kids don't need a lot of things. I usually get my grandkids some kind of craft or science project and a board game. I'm learning to get them ones that are classic so they can be played for a long time. They loved them.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I think it's wonderful that you are investing in toys that will last a long time and have lasting value!

[@victoriabaldwin3173]

This is my first time seeing you. You are terrific.🎉🎉🎉

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I’m so glad you found me! I hope you will stick around! It will be fun to have you here.

[@gloriastrelow9822]

So happy it worked out. Honesty is the best.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Yes, it is!

[@kathycarter1553]

Hi Rozanne, I really enjoyed your video day and I have been MIA on Utube, because my Husband got cancer in his lymph node and he is going to have radiation therapy and now he has been on Immunotherapy for the last two months. I have been married 44 years and never had Christmas Decorations up after New Years, but I got very sick on New Years Eve and still not feeling the best. I hope you are doing well and have a beautiful day.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I’m so glad to see you Kathy! So sorry about your husband though. Prayers for him that his therapy will go well. Hope you get better too. I’ve been feeling better the last week or so. Sleeping in the chair again has helped. But really… I am glad!!!! To see you!!! Take care my friend.

[@Betty-JoD]

That is a great idea, the changes you made! We have always done one opening at a time. My kids are all grown now and we still do that. It is great you talked to your daughter about it and cleared the air. Good for you! Kids 🤣 I took home-ec in school too. I liked it! You got a lot done! 👏🏼 I hope you have a blessed weekend!❤

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I love that you took Home Ec! It was a fun class. I thought it was a shame that my children didn’t have that option. Hope you have a great weekend too!

[@kerryprzytula7]

My Thanksgiving and Christmas was horrible. Yes i do have children and grandchildren but ended up spending the Hoildays alone😢. I took all of my Christmas decorations and Tree on Christmas Day. It was such a good feeling and a big relief. I love your channel. Thank you. Have a beautiful evening and New Year ✨️ 💕

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Oh no! So sorry it was so hard. Too bad you don’t live here. You could have come over for Christmas waffles. I’m glad you found my channel!

[@Nanasknoll72]

I so understand the kitchen and wanting it clean in the morning. Because of Meds sometimes I have to stop and do it in steps. I just feel so good when it is clean. I want to come in then and prep supper so it is not so tiering.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

That’s what I do when I’m not feeling well. I might do 10 minutes, rest, and then try it again.

[@SandraHamer-xv1uc]

I no longer Decorate.for Christmas ,or buy decorations ,we had cats and that ended the decorating, but as I have gotten older I really enjoy Christmas more with less pressure to decorate because all that stuff has to be dusted or cleaned and put away. Too. And all of this was me doing the most of it . This was the first year we told the family that I am not writing checks for every one ,and it felt odd but I stuck with that. They all each got a personal card with sentiments just for them. They liked them. Change is good !

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

It sounds like you found some really good peace with your decisions, and that's wonderful! I can understand the problem with cats. Our cat was a terror with the decorations and furniture for a long time. Thankfully, she seems to have settled down. Yes, change is good!

[@BR-kk9qu]

Loved this!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I’m so glad!

[@diannajohnston4558]

You need a cordless vacuum!!!!!!!! No more cords for me….mine is a recharable that hangs in my utility closet!!!!! I LOVE IT

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I’ve actually had three of them! (Dyson and two Hoovers). The situation with battery life was a mess, even when I bought extra batteries. I finally had it and bought this one with the cord. The cord is a pain, but at least I know it will keep working. Glad yours is working well for you!

[@katespurgeon5572]

I definitely like the idea of pj's that aren't Christmas themed. This year my Daughter's family decided to do Grinch hoodies. The older kids seemed more accepting of that option.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I don't know why it took me so long to think of it. Sometimes, I'm a little slow on the uptake. :-)

[@CynthiaMiller-cc3qj]

Again, like you, I always think I can get more done than I actually can. I make a list daily and I make sure I do the 2 most important items. If I see I can’t complete the list, I ask myself what can I leave until tomorrow that isn’t going to make a big difference. I’ve given up feeling guilty because I didn’t finish the list. With the Fibro and Long Covid & Diabetes ,you really have to cut yourself some slack. My husband helps me as much as possible before he runs out of energy ( he has some of the same health problems as I do). You seem to have more stamina these days. YAY. I’d would like more info on your make-ahead freezer meals. What you prepared, recipes etc. We just put away all the holiday decor today and we are plumb wore out!! Happy New Year dear friend.🎉🎈❤️

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Yeah, I’ve been doing a lot better since I started sleeping in the chair again. I guess I should just stick with it. It has felt so good to feel good. 🤣 But yeah… we need to give ourselves some slack when we have the bad days that come with these diseases sometimes. I’ll put the frozen meals thing on my list. Take care of yourself!

[@moniquehernandez97]

Happy New Year 🎉 wow! You did a lot. You should be so proud of yourself, I felt tired just watching. I love that you are so genuine and open and honest. I really struggled this year with energy and pushing through each day. Putting away Christmas took 7 hours and I just was exhausted. I hope this year I can feel more energy and also have time for rest too.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Thanks! I really appreciate your support. It means a lot. Yes, let’s both have better years. Here’s to 2025!

[@moniquehernandez97]

@ AMEN 🙏🏽

[@tinkerbell9399]

We've been doing secret santa for the adults for a few years now. Shopping for grandkids this Xmas was a nightmare! Their ages range from 3months old to 10yrs old, and they just got so much stuff this year, it was crazy! This Xmas we are going to buy them experiences, so cinema tickets, or yearly subscriptions to the zoo, or a visit to a castle with a picnic, or pantomime tickets. Making memories with them, they won't remember what we bought them for Xmas in 10yrs time Greetings from the UK and Happy New Year ❤

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I think that’s a good decision. I’m with you on how hard it is to shop for grandchildren, even if they life with you like mine do. Their parents buy them enough. Maybe my gift should be to wrap up some tickets to something. That could be fun.

[@kimt9971]

I love the music you chose for this video!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Thanks! Picking the music is my favorite part. 😊

[@alexisfreeman5481]

I think it'd be great to see some of the other people that are in your home like your grandchildren your daughter see what everyone's up up to and see what everybody else is doing❤😊

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Sometimes they wander in and out and you’ll see or hear them a little bit, but the channel isn’t a family vlogging channel. I wouldn’t want to force anyone to do things. You’ll likely see more of the youngest and my husband because they are around the most and tend to interact with me even when I’m filming. Other family members keep themselves out of it and I respect their choice.

[@cindyeastbourn7642]

I just love you!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

You’re so kind. Thanks’

[@katerace9160]

Hi there from the UK , I'm New to your channel,,, I just want you to know I love your channel and with your Honest, suggestions and ideas are really helping me, 💕 Happy New Year 💕

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Thank you so much! I’m so glad you’re here!

[@cwdrummond]

Awesome video. Lots done! But these no way I could do that much in one day. Exhausting. ❤

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Sometimes I feel better than others. Since I went back to sleeping in my recliner, I’m starting to perk up again. I guess I really wasn’t sleeping well enough in the bed. I’m enjoying being able to do things!

[@SusanL-ds6lc]

I have a home binder where I have a holiday section. Every year, after the holidays, I jot down changes for next yr. I make note of things that were great & note of things to do away with. I review it before the holidays. It's awesome. ❤ 💜 🤍 I use a planner every day. I get a Day Designer vertical weekly. Every day you write your top 3 activities. Very helpful.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

That's a great idea for a binder! I think I’m going to make some notes in my new planner so I can remember. Thanks!

[@Jewel-ju2qz]

I've done exactly the same for the first time this January...plenty of changes and more time for me & hubs this Christmas 😊

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

@ good for you!!

[@KathleenMansfield-f7r]

Next year tie your garland on the railing with pretty Christmas ribbon… looks so pretty and won’t scratch your banisters.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I like that idea! I also saw someone put garland at the bottom of the bannisters and it was beautiful. I need to see if I can find that video again.

[@FreidaGLewis]

You look like you are feeling better! I love that!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I am! Sleeping in the recliner again is really helping me. Good sleep can be everything. Hope you’re doing well. 😀

[@FreidaGLewis]

@@TowardsASimpleLifeI have fibro, arthritis, and myasthenia gravis, and I have a daily struggle to keep my house going. It makes me feel better to know someone else is in the same situation who is coping well.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

@ bless your heart! That’s quite a combination. I’m very glad you’re here.

[@FreidaGLewis]

@ your comment about never being able to get everything done you had planned and then being down on yourself is exactly how I feel. I’m making steady progress in getting my house decluttered, organized, and deep cleaned, and it’s like a load is slowly lifting. I’m going to make it yet!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

@ 👍

[@janeswire8351]

I enjoyed your video you are so down to earth person. Thank you ❤❤

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Thank you! I appreciate it!

[@christinao8877]

I like to leave the green winter decor up for January/February and just take down anything Christmasy.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I’ve done that before. It’s nice!

[@kimbucha2949]

We don't buy gifts at all any more. we do treat the whole family to a weekend at a lake house and rent a boat for the day during the summer. Yes its more expensive than we would spend on gifts, but its an experience and a time we can all relax and enjoy each other.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

That sounds like a lot of fun!

[@DeborahDickinson-t9u]

Love your vedios hugs from Kingman Arizona.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Thanks for watching! I hope you’re enjoying the warm weather in Arizona. ☀️

[@MR-rw3vc]

I did enjoy this video!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I’m so glad you liked it!

[@sherryllynn1809]

Movie idea, if you haven't seen it: Hallmark movie "A Dog Named Christmas." Make that granddaughter sit down and watch something nice!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Good idea!! She could definitely use a little less KZbin Kids channel. 😀

[@heidihomsher6743]

That’s one of my favorite movies!

[@susierennert2249]

I use a poinsettia garland and weave it through the bottom of the railing so that I can still use the top of the railing to hang on to.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

That sounds beautiful! Poinsettias ass gorgeous. I once saw someone put garland at the bottom of the rail and it was very pretty. I’ve wondered if I could figure out how to do it.

[@jenniferroy6288]

not to be a downer,but poinsettia can be irritating to the immune system.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

@ wow! Really? I hadn’t heard that before. Yikes.

[@kmom452]

Your grandaughter has an active imagination. LOL I'm not a grandma yet but solving a mystery together sounds fun. It sounds like she was setting up a " who dunnit" scenario. First she was the detective and then the bandit herself. Haha😊 I love it!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

@ that’s exactly right! I missed that the first thing she said was that she had a list of suspects on the fridge and they had decided to pretend that I was one of them. Her mother loves to solve true crime puzzles. I think that’s was what she was doing. I wish I had remembered that sooner!

[@GBY301]

The green jumper really suits you! Wish I could alter clothes. We weren’t taught to sew at school (went to school in the 90s and 2000s), which was a real pity. But I bought a sewing machine last year and went on a beginners course but find every time I attempt anything with it, it goes wrong! X

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Thanks! I really like it. My recommendation is to start with some easy things with straight seams to get acquainted with how the machine moves through fabric. We learned how to make simple aprons, pillow cases, etc. Gradually we moved onto more complicated items. If you are really interested, I bet there are some good free step-by-step beginners courses on KZbin.

[@GBY301]

@@TowardsASimpleLifeThank you for your advice. Really interested to practise but hard to find time sometimes with young kids around 😅 I think getting the machine out and set up is a mission in itself so hopefully in the future I’ll have more space to have it permenantly set up like you do 😊.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

@@GBY301 mine isn’t actually permanently set up. That is the same desk I use for computer work, but I’m used to setting it so it is fast. Take heart… it can happen for you eventually. Everything is harder with little kids around!

[@vanessarobinson1080]

Christmas's used to be everyone coming to our home both days. It was tiring but I relished it. Now I'm a Grandmother of a 4 year old who's birthday is 29th Dec. He gets overwhelmed so we gradually give him gifts. My daughter decided he would have an early birthday on 1st Dec for him and a few friends just trampolining. Then on his birthday he came to us for 2 hours...we bought him a puppet theatre and performed a short punch and judy play which was hilarious.Then Jan 1st was lunch for us,his auntie and mum.Afterwards went to a scientific discovery centre which he loved. So all in all it was a success. I still did Christmas Day but one daughter did boxing day buffet for us which was lovely. And a Christmas quizz to follow finished the night off! Not staying all day helps I think...but I know many families don't live close enough to do that. Happy New Year to everyone!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

What a lovely holiday season! It sounds like such a good time.

[@marciawright2600]

It takes me a week to get my Christmas decor down and house cleaned (and I don't have that much)! Regarding Flocked decor. I would take that to Good Will! I have a whole pile of decorations that I am donating. I am going to go minimal next year. Tree, door wreath and a few good smelling candles! 🥰

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

It is a lot of work! Flocking is a pain for sure! I just finished getting my decor down. Whew! You’ll get to see the “fun” soon. Ha!

[@susierennert2249]

Me too, I just have way too much stuff. Every time I open a Christmas gift and it is another decoration... I want to cry. The old stuff isn't even old yet but I have to give it away.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

@ isn’t it funny how it just kind of creeps up on you?

[@jennieball7751]

Hi I'm new to your channel you have such a beautiful home. I struggle with fibromyalgia too. I liked your video about the great Christmas mistake. I give my grandkids amazon gift cards. They love getting them. My grandkids other grandparents give them so much. One of my sweet daughter in law use to take pictures of the gifts. Her parents filled a couch with their gifts. My gifts to them would be very small. I have to be honest about being jealous. I finally asked her not to include my pictures of gifts. Your daughter was wise saying she is the Mom.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

It's good to know they are happy with Amazon gift cards! I think my family would enjoy them too. We all shop with Amazon a lot. So nice to hear from you!

[@pearlhighstead8718]

You may want to decorate the spindles not the bannister next year that way you have the bannister clear but you have the decoration as well

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I'm thinking of doing something like that, but even using my other garland would help because it is soft touch. I didn't avoid using the banister last year. The garland I used this year is so stiff and pokey that I avoided it. I won't use it again!

[@KathyOutschoolSelfPaced]

Christmas Eve Eve and New Year’s Eve Eve are “Christmas Adam,” and “New Year’s Adam.” And then the next day is Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve. 😂

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Oh how cool! I haven’t heard that before. I like it!

[@peggyboehnlein8755]

Oh my gosh, yes, yes!!!! Your daughter, amen!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

She really is a wonderful person. Love her so much!

[@stephaniechessell501]

I have the same vacuum and love it! Especially with the light on it. I really feel that without wives Christmas would not happen in our house. Do you feel this way too?

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I totally agree! There are many thing that wouldn’t happen around here without me. My husband is a wonderful man, but his mind just rubs a different direction and it never occurs to him. 😀

[@katie7748]

I just wanted to say that I've been using Bloom for YEARS!! Great thick but not too thick paper, basic layout, no excess frills, but a few optional frills if you so choose to utilize them, lovely covers...I've kind of outgrown them as I've gotten older and life has gotten busier/more complicated, but I still find myself getting another each year to at least keep track of birthdays, bills, any appointments, etc. More of a record keeper than a planner per se. My only big complaint is all the dumb "holidays" and "observances" they put in them. First thing I always do is cross them off with a black pen or marker. (Also love that the paper doesn't bleed unless you're using a bad pen/marker!!) And some of the toxic positivity and girlbosspower stuff irks me but ehh, it's part of the brand. Anyway, I hope your new planner works for you. A good planner can be life changing 😊

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

They are awesome, but yes…. Some of those holiday and such are weird. I guess it’s just the times we live in. But they sure are pretty!

[@lauraann7816]

Yes! For many years December 23rd has been known as Christmas Eve Eve to me 😊 I saw your other video and I was upset for you how Christmas morning went. I am 62- the Grandma-- and we still form sort of a circle and each person takes a turn opening a gift and we all see it and know who it's from and oh and ah ❤ That's a pretty planner 👍

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

It sounds like you have a beautiful tradition! I love that it’s so meaningful. I think our next Christmas will be great.

[@Myeverydaywifelife]

I didn’t put much out for Xmas this year, no tree so I didn’t have much to put away. However all I’d did so far was take it down and put it all on dinning room table (we never use it) I’ll put it away on another day.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I totally get it, sometimes those things just need to wait a bit.

[@Christineakaminniewinnie]

I luv these kinds of notebooks and things too.If I don’t make notes I’m hopeless😅Nearly 60 and feel it a bit.I just do what I can at my own pace.🌸 Why would the child say that re $10 ?That may need addressing.Probably just said in jest….however can be hurtful. Thanku for sharing.Love ur channel.🩷

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

It took me a bit to realize what had happened. It's easy to miss on the video, but she started out by saying she had a list of suspects on the refrigerator. Then she decided to talk to one of the suspects - me. She was playing a game! I wish I'd had the thought to just ask her if that is what she was doing. It also would have helped if she had started out that way, but she's a kid, I'm imperfect and that's the way it rolled out. (I'm not trying to present a perfect home and life here.) But if you listen to the exchange again, you'll hear my tone of voice change when I told her I hadn't stolen her money. I'm a very soft-spoken person and the only time my voice sounds firm like that is when someone has done something wrong. (I'm not a yeller.) She immediately knew she'd messed up and was sorry. Later, I told her mom about it and we both told her that she shouldn't have said that to me. Enough said. She's a wonderful little child and loves me very much. I think that's why she decided Grandma was perfect to play along with her. (I gave her mom a True Crime Puzzle book for Christmas. I think Avery decided to be a detective and then later, a bandit.)

[@Christineakaminniewinnie]

@@TowardsASimpleLife Children always amaze.She luvs and trusts Grandma so much that she felt able to play a game with you knowing u would understand.Shes only 7.Their imagination knows no bounds at that age.Im glad things are quiet now after a busy festive period.Time to recharge and look forward to the spring when it comes.I luv the garden.Thanku again for sharing your lovely life with us and I look forward to your next posts.Tk care.Kind wishes from Scotland UK.🩷🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

It's so true... Children are amazing. I learn so much from them and they bring me so much joy. It's worth putting up with a little nonsense from time to time. I'm looking forward to getting back into my garden too!

[@SnowLeopard01369]

I usually take down the Christmas tree after New Years. When I worked in the Air National Guard it would be on my first weekend off after New Years so this years would of been 11 & 12 and yes I need two days because of the amount of ornaments I put on my tree. I love my tree after I’m done decorating so I don’t mine enjoying it a little longer. As for the Christmas unwrapping disaster your adult Children should of corrected everyone on how you do Christmas unwrap. My brother and I always stop the children and made sure everyone was on board with the individual unwrapping. It last longer and everyone gets to see what you got and the reaction to the gift you got them. Now days we only give the children gifts and us adults help each other out the best we can as we don’t want more stuff we don’t need and the stuff we need is out of everyone’s price range.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I hear you! I think it's wise to enjoy it a little longer, if that's what you want. I ended up waiting until then too!

[@alinaz.813]

Feliz Año Nuevo

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Thanks!

[@cindyeastbourn7642]

So much more fun putting Christmas up than taking it down🥴

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

That’s so true!

[@kmom452]

My husband and I have 5 children all together. The oldest are adults have their own lives and live in different States. We just give all of them and their spouses money. Its the easiest way. For the youngest who are older teens we give a small cash gift (usually 50 dollars) we get them one thing that they want for under the tree, one surprise and two or three useful items plus a stocking full of various thing. The dollar amount of all these gifts usually does not exceed 100 dollars. But occasionally there will be something they need like a new winter coat or shoes and then the dollar amount might be higher. The useful items are things like socks, underwear, pj's. Things that go in the stocking might be candy, salty treats, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, face masks, facial cleaners, lotions...etc. We learned when the kids were small that we just had to do Christmas on a small scale. Many years their toys came from thrift stores, garage sales, flea markets....etc. They had no idea that they had used items and probably would not have cared anyway. It was the best way to stay within the budget. I think they are all grateful for anything they get at this point in their lives so I consider that we did a good job with this. We have yet to have grandkids yet. ( with the economy this keeps getting pushed back.) But when we do have them I believe we'll do the same things. At the end of the day kids are just happy with a big box and crayons. LOL

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

It sounds like you did a great job with Christmases for your children! Hopefully, you’ll get to enjoy some grandchildren too. They are really fun (and funny). Thanks so much for your comment. It was wonderful to hear from you!

[@kitchenworker446]

I am a minimalist and take down my decs on the day after Christmas day...I jut can't stand having them drooping around the place looking sad...so they all come down and go away until next year...

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I used to do that when I was younger. A couple of times we took down the tree on Christmas Day!

[@funniful]

I’m the same. Usually it’s within 3 or 4 days after Christmas…mostly because I usually need a couple/three days to recuperate and do nothing. Christmas disrupts my routines, so it is important to me to get back to regularity.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

@ I totally get this!

[@katherinebarbery1762]

We all need to change,xmas is to commercial nowadays,people get so focused on what they have in presents,no thought of what or how you chose the presents you give,and the memories of xmas don't seem to be a grateful one for beginning with the family any more,more so on the ammount of money is spent,i would rather have one present that i really want,and the stuff you get that usually gets put away in the cupboards ❤❤❤if you need the bannister ,put the garland on the bottom of spindles rather than the handrail

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I agree with this! My daughter gave me a $10 Snoopy cup and I love it so much. She knows I love them and when she saw this, she knew it was for me. It pleased me more than anything because it showed that she knows me so well.

[@melodywalls4693]

In looked my machine up on KZbin, it has an automatic threader. 😊😊

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

That would be so awesome! I didn't know they made them!

[@laurat7324]

Avery is so funny. Did she find her $10 bill? Also, I think your husband said he's getting a Neti Pot. I love mine. I swear by it. It cuts down on the length of sinus/cold symptoms for me. PLUS a good quality zinc has worked wonders for me. I think it's sweet that your daughter has offered to help with the Christmas festivities next year. So many times we don't know how someone feels until they tell us. It's interesting that she noted that the roles are changing. She is the mama now. My sister and I are doing the cooking a lot now and my mom just sits back and relaxes. She's 89 so she's earned it but still...so have you!!! I enjoyed this video and I love seeing a new one pop up. 😍🥰😀

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

She had it in her hand, so it wasn’t even missing. She can be so funny. She’s just came in and was trying to do break dancing all over my floor. I asked her if she has been watching dancing on TV and she had. She is so amusing. I wish I had talked to my daughter before. She just gave me a new Snoopy cup and it is the cutest thing ever. I love it!

[@Lolly-n4b]

My kids and my son-in-laws travelled to our home for Christmas from very far away. I made sure to pull out all the stops and decorated to the hilt so they would feel truly Christmasy and they did. It even snowed a few days before they arrived to set the scene. But a couple of weeks before the big day, I noticed my oven was acting up and seemed to be dropping heat from what I set it at. In all the hurry and hustle in decorating, shopping and wrapping, my husband and I didn't get around to getting someone in to check it, so I arranged for a pre-cooked turkey with gravy from a local grocery store and I did my vegetables, stuffing and trifle as usual.. But the turkey was so disappointing and really ruined the dinner for me though everyone reassured me it was fine. You can't always control everything and we just have to roll with what comes and not sweat the small stuff. The important thing was having my kids at home and enjoying our time together.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

It sounds like you've got a great perspective on things. That’s awesome. Hope you can get your oven fixed!

[@cindyeastbourn7642]

Would like to hear more on meals ahead

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I’ll put it on my list. 😀

[@sherryllynn1809]

Obviously, nice children don't just happen. It has to be TAUGHT.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Exactly! And they have to make mistakes so we have something to teach them. 👍 Goodness knows I make plenty of them. 🤣

[@darlenemartensen8303]

I would love to see your cooking videos

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I’ll add them to my list!

[@TRUTHisTRUTH70]

Watching you, I have nosy question: If you are living in a multi-generational family (kids and/or grands living with you), how much responsibility are THEY taking for helping to keep the house clean and tidy? Seems like you are doing everything... they are certainly capable of helping pack away decorations, cleaning the kitchen, etc.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

They do help, and my daughter has an apartment in the basement so she takes care of that. Her kids help her with it, too. It’s kind of like she is on her own without being on her own. But of course, everyone is wandering around. I watch the kids after school, etc. My husband helps a lot and one of my sons does too. I enjoy homemaking though and I enjoy decorating. Everyone knows that I’ll take the decor down because I don’t want my bins messed up. That would make it harder for me the next year. But once I get the bins packed up, my husband carries most of our for me and arranges the garage. I am happiest when I feel good to work around the house!

[@susierennert2249]

​@@TowardsASimpleLifeI'm with you on this one, my house, my stuff, my way. Not to be controlling but to remain organized. I find other things they can do if they want to help, like putting batteries in or taking them out.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

@@susierennert2249 Exactly! Wrestling the bins is hard enough even if they are sort of organized. 😀

[@melodywalls4693]

So the kids will have 2 Christmases. My grandson's do. It's great. I have rude same sewing machine and always thought I'd be living near or with my daughter. Sigh.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Sorry that you aren't near her. That has to be hard.

[@sherryllynn1809]

Hearing that little girl's sweet voice, then accusing you of theft, oh my, so glad I don't have kids! You seem very nice. How do kids get so bad???? WTF?

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

No, she’s not bad. She’s just a kid. They do things like that sometimes. I try to present some real life in my channel because it’s just not believable that a child would be perfect 100% of the time. She’s really a good little girl. I was pretty surprised when she said it, though. I could tell she immediately regretted saying it. We all laughed about it later because it was so ridiculous. I remember saying a few silly things to my own mother as I grew up and I’m fairly certain that I still say some silly things from time to time. It’s just part of the process of growing up

[@mimisabundantlife]

I don't think it was your fault about Christmas... The children are both old enough to know better. I know that sounds brutal but stop blaming yourself. You did nothing wrong

[@jenniferw1595]

Agree. Also, 5 adults living in the house- they can all help with everything from cleaning to cooking.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

They do help, but I could always use more! Ha!

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Yep. We’re working on it - all of us - and I think things will be better next year. I’m personally going to work on getting them to say thank you more often. I think that sometimes we just assume they understand. Not necessarily!

[@vagabondjane3547]

I agree about having solid boundaries with please, thank you, etc. However, that's what parents are supposed to be doing! When all the generations are around, it can be too easy to infantilize the parents and do their job for them. Which really screws up the parent- child relationship, because the kids start to see their parents as siblings and equals. So, maybe time to talk to the parents, set your boundaries about kids and them, and then hold the parents to the line. It will make them better parents, have a better relationship with their kids, and with you! Best of luck!❤

[@marycorriston5090]

I hope your husband helped with the cleanup and ALL the work connected with Christmas. Women tend to get the primary burden.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I like to take it down so I can sort things into bins myself. Otherwise, I wouldn't be able to find anything next year! But he carries the bins around, takes them down, puts them up etc. and is always available to help me when I need it. He's a great guy.

[@hauntedbearchild]

Everyone does holidays different, do what you want. There are no rules. What's the rush? Also, granddaughter has a ton of energy, get her to help. You have many in the house, you should not be doing it all yourself.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

Good ideas. Thanks!

[@melodywalls4693]

So.... you stole the$10 before cleaning the kitchen? 😅😅😅 little ones come up with things out of the blue. I have a stick vac for the kitchen and living room. We have hard wood floors. Makes quick work off the floor.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

It was actually a commenter that made me rethink what she had said to me. If you listen to that section again, you'll hear her say that she had a list of "suspects" on the fridge and I guess I was one of them. And then she played like she was a bandit all day. I had given my daughter a book of True Crime Puzzles to solve and I bet that she was talking about it, Avery heard it, and she decided that she needed to solve some crimes. The first crime? Grandma stole $10. She really is an inventive child. The whole thing makes me laugh now that I've "solved the mystery" for myself! Stick vacs are nice!

[@melodywalls4693]

@@TowardsASimpleLife that is too funny.

[@alexisfreeman5481]

Why didn't you get your grandchild to help you she looks old enough to help you to take down the decorations were you one of those people that have to have done a certain way and that's why nobody else helps😊😊

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I do receive help, but the answer to your question isn’t simple as it may appear. 😀

[@ruthirwin8222]

We do secret santa for 30 pounds then i buy the 5 grandchildren

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

That sounds like such a great solution!

[@allioakley3372]

I would get a garland with no flocking or go without. Avoid the mess it makes. Your future self will thank you. 💚❤️💚

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I already have one and it is gorgeous. I was just in such a mood this year and decided to try the flocking again. Now remember why I bought another one. 😂I think it’s probably time to donate the flocked version!

[@CindyArnold-e5t]

Just an observation; the bannisters decor wasn’t worth for you. Safety concern as you cannot grip rail, peace of mind as you worry about another fall, flocking fluff mess, the time to put it up and take it down, NOT worth it. New plan for next year. Perhaps batter powered lights around the bottom of the uprights of the balusters. Something festive but not a hassle.

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

I agree! I've been thinking I need to find a different solution, thanks for the ideas. Even using the other garland would be better. It’s soft enough that I can still grab the bannister. The one I used this year is so stiff and “pokey” that it hurt to grab it.

[@dtmc4509]

Im not proficent in sewing lol

[@TowardsASimpleLife]

😀