What I’m Doing and Not Doing This December

Hello, from the ICE 515 train from Cologne to Munich! I had the most wonderful time exploring Cologne, Germany for 3 nights. I wish I could have stayed a week. I loved this unique and wonderful city. I hope to come back soon.

I got this post idea from my friend, Shanna, on her blog. She and I have a mini tradition and I broke them all this year to have a 3-week adventure around Europe. … Sorry, Shanna! I promise not to break our tradition next year!

So, let’s get into what the heck I’m up to…

Table of Contents

What I’m Doing and Not Doing This December

The Nutcracker

This is the tradition that I broke with Shanna. Last year was one of the best because we forgot we splurged on upgraded seats. So, when we got there, we not only had a great view of the ballet but we also got a snack during intermission. She got a cupcake and I got a glass of bubbles.

I cannot wait to continue this tradition next year and I hope we surprise ourselves again. We also tend to book our tickets on the days of Seattle’s Urban Craft Fair and stop to get a late brunch. It’s, honestly, the perfect December girl date. 10/10 recommend doing this with your besties.

Christmas Market

This year I am checking a lot of these markets off of my bucket list. In short, yes – I’m visiting a lot of Christmas Markets this year. However, I am officially jealous because this year they announced that Seattle would have its very first Christmas Market and I am missing it! Not that I feel bad for myself. My goodness, I’m traveling through Germany as I type!

Shopping

This year, I put a limit on Christmas gifts. As you know, I quit my job, and even though I have the money I genuinely feel as if the spirit and essence of the season can get lost with consumerism. I’m officially out of retail marketing as my job and can speak freely – gifts are not what Christmas is about. Sure, it’s fun but what I always remember most is the time we spent together more than what I got.

Working

There are days I wake up in another country and I’m completely floored that I quit my job to travel. This is the first December in 10 years that I’m not working on the holidays. I won’t need to be on call or pick up emergency requests from another team at 8 pm on Christmas Eve. I’m so excited to spend each holiday uninterrupted and give my little nephew my full attention.

Adding Ornaments to my Christmas Tree

This year I’m adding quite a few new ornaments to the tree because I travelled so much this year! I’ve bought Christmas decorations in almost every city I’ve been to and I can’t wait to add them when I’m back home.

Christmas Tree Farm

This is a tradition I used to do every year with my Dad and we haven’t for a few years now because we celebrate the holidays at my brother’s house. I’m hoping I can make this into a tradition again next year with him. The Oregonian girl in me loves going to tree farms. They’re so family friendly and they always have hot cocoa/cider, garland, wreaths… everything to rein in the holidays.

Making cookies and mulled wine

Every year I try to make cookies and winter granola to give out to my friends and family. This year, I’ll be gone!

So, my sister-in-law has promised we can make and decorate cookies as a family. I couldn’t be more excited to do this with her sister’s kids and my sisters. All while drinking a hot glass of mulled wine!

As I get older, these traditions are something I would like to start now. I love the idea of adopting them if I ever have my own family. I love the idea of trying each out and think it’s a great way to build sweet memories today.

Even though I’m loving all the German glühwein and potatoes, I can’t wait to see my family for Christmas.

Happy Blogmas! 🎄