Packing Up 2023

Before I can begin to reflect on this year and look to what goals or intentions I want to set for 2024, I have to first quite literally pack up 2023. I love decorating my house for Christmas. Some may argue I get started too early in the season but I love enjoying it for more than just a couple of weeks. However, when Christmas is over, I immediately go into the mode of packing it back up. Many enjoy their trees and decorations through the New Year and I love that tradition. But for me, I like to already be un-decorated by the time we ring in the New Year.

I have even been known to start washing Christmas towels to be put away till next year on Christmas night. My husband just laughs at me because he knows that when it’s over it’s over; at least in our house.

This year, for all holidays that I decorate for, I have been giving my future self the gift of organization as I pack up the totes. I do this by packing things up in a way that I will appreciate a year later.

Here are a few tips that can help as you pack up 2023.

Take out batteries– Have you ever unpacked something like a fake candle centerpiece only to find the battery pack a slimy mess? Well I have and it is super gross. This year, I took out all batteries before I packed things up. I didn’t dispose of them but rather will put them to use in things like new toys that my kids got or as part of my non-Christmas winter décor.

Ditch it if you didn’t use it– Chances are if you didn’t end up putting up a certain decoration this year, that next year you won’t want it either. For some reason, I always kept hanging on to things thinking one day I would want it. This year, I made a donation pile for the decorations that are still in great shape but that no longer fit my style. Freeing up room in those Christmas totes will feel amazing, I promise.

Label– This one was the hardest for me. I will usually pack things up in no particular order. This year, I more intentionally packed it up. Instead of finding things like one garland in this box and another in that, I ensured I have categories. I also used more tissue paper and bubble wrap to safely secure things and I will then be able to use that over and over. No more finding broken items each year.

Ornaments– Not only did I finally include certain ornaments in my donation pile, I also ensured the ones I am keeping are neatly wrapped. Typically, I will wrap them up but something always breaks or they are just a hot mess sort of gently tossed into the tote. This year I took the time to neatly pack them. Sure, it’s nice to hang onto some childhood ornaments and I definitely do that. But the random ones you have received over the years that have no sentimental value you are not obligated to keep.

Annual letter to yourself– I have been doing this for years and I value greatly. Each January around New Years, I write a letter to myself reflecting on the past year. I include hopes and goals, ups and downs and even items that the kids received for Christmas. It is really fun opening about 11 months later. I tuck it away in one of the holiday totes and only allow myself to read it as I am unpacking.

As 2024 gets started, I hope each of you can also feel good about packing up 2023; both literally and figuratively!