We’re dreaming of a white Christmas. But not in the traditional sense. Beyond our windows it can be grey or green for all we care, we’re taking white, as in a state of mind.
We’ve been trying to write something profound about what Christmas is all about and we keep coming back to a quote by Janice Maeditere, saying that “Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts.” And while we do appreciate the tradition of gift giving, our society has gotten so wrapped up in the ritual of buying, sending us on borderline panicked shopping mall frenzies to purchase thoughtless gifts, all in the name consumerism.
This week we will be posting some ideas for spirited gifts, and gifts for the mind and body. We’ll be giving ideas for gifts that are almost or completely free, that you can make yourself and that only requires your time. And should you choose to shop, we always recommend supporting your local designers and crafts people and to get things that are sustainably made and environmentally sound.
Below, we have compiled a small list of the things we want the most for the holidays and the new year to come:
Be Content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.
— Lao Tzu
Fear less, hope more; eat less, chew more; whine less, breathe more; talk less, say more; love more, and all good things will be yours.
— Swedish proverb
The secret of happiness, you see, is not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less.
— Socrates
Images (from the top, left to right): Reath of antlers, coffee in bed, Basket of fire wood, White wrapped gifts, White knits, Strings of bells, Snow covered trees, Plywood Christmas tree, String of pine cones, Bedroom with fireplace.
Wish List for 2014
Less stress
More peace of mind
Less expectations
More time for the people we care about
Less take away food
More candle lit dinners
Less rushed mornings
More breakfasts in bed
Less clutter
More hugs
Less things
More love
With that, we wish you all a minimalist Christmas and a humble new year!
With love,
Anette