So... Everything is almost ready at home. ✨ I’ve baked some traditional cookies, decorated the house, and I’m currently watching Some Like It Hot. The holiday spirit is in full swing, and I’m so excited to have a peaceful Christmas this year—hopefully. It’s on my terms, somewhat, without the family gatherings that often stress me out, so it should be nice and cozy. I won’t lie; sometimes I feel sad that I don’t want to spend the holidays with my family. But I can’t help it. If you know, you know. If you don’t truly want something from the bottom of your heart, you shouldn’t force it because, in the end, it will always backfire. I feel like the progress I've made in therapy could easily be undermined, and I would end up feeling like I'm back at square one when I'm at my parents' house. If that makes sense. 

But I’m fine; I really am. 🥂 I’m definitely not crying in the corner, reminiscing about what could have been. I’m creating my own reality, and this year, I baked Christmas cookies with such ease. I ordered all my gifts online and simply picked them up at the local post office. Easy! I also treated myself to some cute clothes for the season. Although I still have to watch my diet after experiencing food poisoning at the beginning of December, I’m focused on buying healthy foods and taking plenty of vitamins. I’m slowly becoming the person I want to be—the person I needed as a friend while growing up and learning to adult. I’m starting to be okay with myself and my needs and routines. And that, my friends, is the greatest gift I could give myself this Christmas.

Do you decorate your tree the same way every year? Do you use the same ornaments, or do you switch it up? I have to say, I still create a very similar tree each year; from what I gathered throughout the years. I just add new ornaments and sometimes leave some out. I’m obsessed with the red and silver/gold color combination—it evokes a warm Christmas feeling in me, along with the deep green of the Christmas tree. I was gifted a beautiful festive sweater right before the season (pictured), and I plan to wear it for Christmas Eve dinner. I’m a person who thrives on color, scent, and taste; I need all three to bring out the holiday nostalgia within me.

For the last few years, I’ve really been focusing on giving meaningful gifts. I love the act of giving! I know, I know—Christmas is definitely not just about expensive gifts, but it’s something that’s deep within me. I’m a generous person, and if I have the money, I usually spend it on my loved ones. I adore seeing the smiles on their faces after they open a gift that’s truly thoughtful. I collect ideas throughout the entire year; I have a note on my iPhone specifically for gift ideas. If someone mentions something they like, I jot it down right away. Then in December, I simply refer to the list and don’t have to think about it too much. I enjoy giving gifts that someone truly wants—gifts that can make their lives easier or simply brighten their day, especially if it’s something they wouldn’t buy for themselves otherwise.

This year, I even brought a gift bag for my therapist. I couldn’t help it; I really like that lady. In fact, she’s the one who understands me the most. She thanked me and was about to open it, but I asked her to wait until Christmas Eve to open it under the tree. I like to think it will surprise her and bring a smile to her face. In the gift bag, I included a necklace I made (she has been so supportive of my jewelry making), a nice paper notebook with a note thanking her for everything she does for others, a soy mineral candle, and essential oil (ginger and orange—oh my, it smells so good!), along with a handwritten Christmas card. There’s something special about giving; it’s not just material. With gifts, I try to express what people mean to me by thinking about what would make them happy. Every year, I hope I manage to do just that.

I especially love giving board games, books (personalized based on what people love or are going through at the moment), vintage and retro finds, paintings or framed photos, and practical gifts for the home or kitchen. I also enjoy giving jewelry, vinyl records, wellness vouchers (because who doesn’t need a massage?), or items that support someone’s hobbies, such as music or creative pursuits (guitar, canvas, How to books...).

Originally, I thought I wasn’t going to bake any cookies this year. After dealing with a two-week stomach illness, I couldn’t eat much and felt completely behind on everything at home. I was just grateful to keep working without needing time off, but I had zero energy for things like cleaning, shopping, cooking, or baking. It wasn’t until last weekend that I decided to dedicate some time to decorating and baking. And guess what? I managed to bake around nine different types of cookies! On Friday evening, I prepared the doughs, on Saturday, I baked everything, and by Sunday, I was decorating and putting the finishing touches on all the cookies. I’m so, so glad I got into the spirit because, as a Czech girl, I simply can’t imagine Christmas without homemade cookies. It’s such a special part of the holiday for me!

In the last few years, I remember not really caring about what I wore during the holidays. I didn’t have any specific plans or a particular agenda. But this year, I feel like stepping it up—I want to be more elegant, feminine, and create a Christmas to remember in every way. So, I ordered a gorgeous red dress (of course, it’s vintage from Vinted), and I’m planning to layer it with this cozy green collared sweater just in case it gets chilly. Honestly, I’m always cold—do you relate? At home, I’m usually bundled up in two pairs of socks, turtleneck sweaters, and sometimes even a hat and gloves when it’s really freezing. 😂 I don’t even know what the weather will be like during Christmas this year, but with this sweater in the mix, I feel prepared for anything! ☃️

I genuinely hope you all have a merry and peaceful holiday—no pressure, no stress. How about doing what you really want this year? For yourself? Just once, let it be about what truly makes you happy. I think it’s a great idea, don’t you? 😊 

Lots of love and a big warm Christmas hug for you, 
XO, Zuzi