Over the last 10 years a few interesting changes have happened. Decorating is far more laid back and intermittent. I had to push myself to have a party this year. As a matter of fact I told Russ "I think we should have a party to thank everyone who has been so incredibly supportive to us". His response? "You always talk about a party, do you think it will actually happen this year?" Yes, it will, but only because I sent out the invites 3 weeks early to make sure I didn't back down once again as 'oh so much work'. I just don't seem to have the Lisa or Stephanie party hostess gene.
How do you decorate without decorating? We don't put a Christmas tree IN the house any longer. We still get a tree permit and go cut one down, but it sits on the porch for us to enjoy through the front window and then we transition it to the side of the homestead. We just love seeing it lit up at night.
I have strung a few ornaments about, put some garland and a wreath out and my favorite Santa is on the front entry table. Voila, decorating done!