🎄😊 OK, be honest with me...how are you feeling about Christmas this year? Have you been following along with my planning? Feeling good or lost? It's not too late, I'm here for you! Download my weekly checklist and follow our simple 6-week series to stay on track! dianedenmark.com ⭐⭐⭐
I'm really looking forward to Christmas this year. I'm actively trying to do a smaller celebration, I already feel happier and am getting more done 🎉❤😊
I'm looking forward to it! I've purchased some new garland for my sitting room, and am donating the old (in great shape) garland as I wanted to switch up the color palette from bright color-pop to green/gold/white. The day after Thanksgiving I'll begin spending a little time each day placing decorations in my sitting room and bedroom. My gifts are purchased, ready to wrap this week. Cards addressed and ready to be written a few a day...much smaller number. For many years I mailed 100+; now I send about twenty. Happy Monday!
I'm in the US. I have done my christmas shopping - 12 pairs of insulated snowpants and 7 warm jackets delivered to a large homeless shelter (they feed and sleep about 180 people each day).
Hi . If your mom left brooches that are not your style tie pretty ribbon on them and put on your tree or maybe your kids would like them for their own trees. We did that with my moms and it’s a nice remembrance. Cheers
I’m looking forward to your video about your mum…in the photos you show of her, her face just glows with an inner light. Even though she is physically absent, her light shines on and on, and you are so kind to share her with us.
I really appreciate how you mention your mom in daily conversion ❤️ sometimes it seems that people find it easier to just not mention the loved ones we lost. So it is refreshing to hear you bring your mum up so naturally. Your love for her always shines trough! And our loved ones are always in our heart 😇
Thank you for the 'permission' / suggestion in one of your videos for LED candles. I couldn't imagine lighting a candle each day but am having success with turning on my led one as I prepare coffee in the morning and dinner in the evening.
I am looking forward to your video about your mum. I lost my mum in January of 2023 and my dad on Saturday evening of this past weekend. I am reeling a bit. Losing your parents is incredibly hard no matter how old you are.
I just love you Diane! I'm in Ohio, USA and love your personality and watching you as you declutter and go through FL zones. You are a motivation and a joy!
Look forward to seeing the video of your Mum. It’s 7 yrs on Thursday since my Mum passed. Her birthday is the 11th December so my kids and I go to the Botanical Gardens Illuminated Trail in Edinburgh every year on her birthday, a new tradition 💜 This year my kids will be getting gifts of experiences. Sending love and hugs xx
Hi Diane. Watching your videos always cheers me up. I'm sorry about your mom passing. I'm looking forward to seeing your upcoming video. The 1st year anniversary of my mom passing will be on December 1st. We had a year of lots of changes. Including my oldest starting university in the fall. We went from a busy household of 5 to a somewhat quieter household of 3. I'm trying to prioritize self care and spending quality time with my husband and youngest. Hope you have a great week ❤ - Tal from Florida
Hi Diane from Australia! I found you about a month ago on here and love watching your videos, I have watched so many I have lost count. My husband (he is Scottish from Glasgow) comes into the room and says are you watching your bestie in Denmark again (LOL). I sensed your sadness about your Mum toward the end of this video, she is with you and shines through your beautiful brightness. Keep doing what you do, it changes lives thank you xx
I remembered your tip from last year Diane - wrap the presents as they arrive into the house. That made such a difference so I’m doing it again. My self care task is to paint my nails 💅 and wear my festive cosy pjs. Thank you Diane 😊
I like that you are taking charge of your feelings and finding solutions to being sad You still look cheery:) and peppy! I admire you for getting everything under control and that you do the ice dips! That takes courage! I get cold just watching you! I watch your videos and learn a lot! Thank you!🙂
Years ago, I realized I needed to switch up the zone schedule to work for my home. The two smallest zones are my entry hallway and my bathroom, so I moved them to the first and last week, respectively, because often the beginning and end of the month are short weeks. Now the larger areas of my home are bookended by the smallest and I have plenty of time to do each zone without rushing. You suggested this in one of your videos, Diane, and it works for me. Thank you!
I'm working in the master bedroom now. I already have my fur babies' Christmas outfit put together 😅 Now I've gotta work on mine. Have a great week, everyone! 👋 😊
Dear Diane, So good to see you and continue to plan for the most wonderful time of the year 💜 I will be working in the bedroom this week, as it is also the room in our apartment, where I store gifts and as parcels have been arriving, the clutter creeps up! So task for this week: wrapping and mailing, what needs to be sent off, recycling boxes and extra packing materials, hiding gifts for the family and preparing the advent calendars for every family member 🤭 I feel like a happy elf! All the best to you and see you in the next one :)
Thank you Diane for being such an encouragement and positive light in our lives. I know if I am feeling down or stuck, your videos make me smile and get up and back on track. Thank you!
Thank you, Diane, for the hug and the cheer. Sending a 🤗 to you. I am happy for you that you will have your brother’s family visiting this Christmas. Good to be together after losing your mum. We recently heard from one of our daughters that she and her hubby will be able to visit us. Unexpected joy! ❤
I love love love you!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This time of year is tricky- first my daughters' birthdays (twins), then Thanksgiving, then Christmas!!!! You always guide me through it all. Especially enjoying your self-care ideas. xoxo
I am really enjoying your videos since discovering your channel, Diane. I find that decluttering one thing a day a very practical method since I have a 5 month old and a 3 year old! My home is very cluttered but I am determined to Declutter now that I’ve decided to adopt a minimalist mindset and this weekend I’m looking forward to cleaning the downstairs of my home followed by the upstairs next weekend, I also love your accent, my mum is from Glasgow and we live in Dublin!! Katie
I love your photos of you dearly departed mum with her happy smile, thank you for sharing her with us. I will be putting my holiday outfits together for self care because I took your advice and planned some fun holiday activites, yay! And I'll take care of the hot spot on my bedroom dresser this week. I so appreciate all you bring to my life with your videos, Daine, thank you!
Like you, I rarely wear skirts, but while shopping for a Christmas top I tried on a lovely knit fabric midi skirt that was so comfortable and warm that I decided to invest in it. I plan on wearing it at least 10 times over the next few months. I have 5 events already planned to wear it. I am well into my shopping, I had a lovely facial today and I have flipped the mattresses and spent time in the primary bedroom. So, all the boxes ticked this week. Yeah me!
I have shared your videos with my 32 year daughter I explained to her cleaning isn't an all day process but needs to done everyday. I told her about Christmas mice in the wall and she loves that idea. I love the Christmas videos. So warm and festive. I have been working in my basement preparing my tree for the front porch and decluttering as I go along. Joan
You are so right about social connections! As a widow, it is easy to feel alone in the world. Like you I connect with friends in joint physical activities such as yoga, aquafit and cycling. This year so far I am enjoying Christmas prep. at a relaxed pace with your encouraging videos.
I have not kept up with the tasks, however, after work I prepared dinner and then I put on this video while I cleaned the kitchen and shined the sink after dinner. I made the beds, watched a little tv with DD, got her to bed. Now, I await a phone call from a friend before getting myself to bed❤. Thanks for the motivation to keep going.
Just what I needed to hear today, especially the nudge to get wrapping! I hope you’re ok, Christmas time raises so many emotions, lean into your self care this week. I’m enjoying the Anastasia Hastings novels and loving your tip of getting to know my local library. Funny how that is helping me to declutter some of my books, knowing that I can usually find them if needed. Take care xx 🌸
Take care making the video about your mum 💕Love the idea of getting Christmas outfits together now, it’s my worst nightmare to be standing at the last minute in front of my wardrobe panicking!
Thanks so much for this series. I do feel very overwhelmed with life in general, and this is helping me by just doing a little at a time. So thankful for your encouragement!! ❤️🌹
Hi Diane! My self care this week was a 1.5 hour walk with my brother, whom I haven’t seen in a year & a half. Chilly here - 50F and breezy, but warmer than it will be come December! So good to experience the fresh air and sunshine, plus the companionship. Back to focusing on the house tomorrow!
I’m already done wrapping gifts and writing cards. Started 5 weeks ago and it’s so liberating that all those things are done and only waiting for posting or giving. Hope you’ll have a nice week! Tomorrow i’m going to dive into my closet to look after festive clothing for me and the kids
Sadly each year that passes the Christmas card list shrinks significantly... and so do the numbers of people close to me so Christmas is bitter sweet. Thinking of you and yours, first Christmas since losing your mum. I still have a few decs up but don't do the Christmas dinner thing. My immediate family and grand kids live too far away..... so it will be cosying up with a zoom call and a large Baileys.
Thanks for keeping going with these inspirational videos. I know how the routines help with keeping on track and activity prevents ruminating. From my own experience though I would stress that rest, as well as active self care, is crucial in coming to terms with grief. Sometimes just make yourself lie down, empty your mind and rest. There's all tomorrow untouched. Very best wishes xx
Hugs to you, Diane. Thank you for this video. I've got most of my shopping done. For each Christmas since he died I have a different watercolor painting printed/copied that my DD husband painted. I give those to all the kids and grands. They love this and look forward to seeing the painting each year. And I bought my neighbor gifts from my Girl Scout granddaughter, not cookies, but nuts or chocolates. I still have only about 10 people to buy gifts for. YAY!🎉
Today is my mom’s 81st birthday so we’re taking her out for dinner. I don’t own any dress clothes so I don’t have to worry about that task. My husband is going to a work Christmas function this week, in another city, and I don’t believe that significant others were invited. Honestly, I struggle to find the joy in Christmas now. Christmas and Black Friday tv commercials started in October and everything is about buy, buy, buy and spend, spend, spend. I do enjoy sending cards and hope that our current postal strike will not be long lived so I can get them in the mail on time. 🇨🇦
@@jenforbes661 thank you for your comment but you are assuming that my tv and phone are the root causes for my Christmas funk, which they are not. And, even though it looks like a wintery Christmas card where I live, a nature walk won’t help put the Christmas spirit in my heart but it will bring tears to my eyes from the windchill. 😭
Several holiday outfits set aside. Casual to cocktails. Some T-shirts with "merry" or "cheers" in sequins for decorating and craft days. Some sparkly or dainty outfits. Lots of reds and greens and golds. Winter boots ready but wearing flipflops today (weather to change any day now.) Organized handbags last week. Still need to pair Christmas jewelry with party outfits (this week). Gifts ready except for checks to grandkids. Need wrapping paper to disguise boxes or winter-pantry extras as Christmas present decor. (I should really wrap and hide the winter's worth of snacks from myself.). Buying and organizing extra winter nonperishables every other day so I can do a little at a time. Starting to refresh batteries in Christmas candles and lights. I do a few each day at dusk. Lots of appointments and grocery shopping this week, so hair and pedicure appointments must count as self care. I feel the need to deep clean two bathrooms next week, then deep clean kitchen after Thanksgiving and turkey soup are done. And of course, LOL every day. 🧺❤🧺❤🧺❤🧺❤🧺❤🧺❤
Thank you for all the reminders. Got the main family presents, not wrapped yet, waiting for my son to get Christmas boxes from the loft. It's a bit of a lul time as I can't always get in the mood for Christmas like I used to since my hubby died 3yrs ago, very suddenly and unexpected. I do make an effort though for my son and his family. You're helping with that too, so thank you for lifting my spirits. 🎉🎉🎉
After watching your videos for years, I’m ready to try the Fly Lady schedule with more structure a la you! I’m going to start this week and continue into 2025. I celebrate Winter with many holidays and some laissez faire Christmas traditions. I need routines in my life and am creating new ones in this chapter. Thank you for all that you give us! 🎉
Rah rah rah 🎉 wrapping this week is my goal. Social connections is one thing I tend to let fall aside during the holiday season but I am getting better at keeping them going thanks to you ❤
I am watching all your planning videos and taking notes. But I am hosting thanksgiving first so I will dive in into your Christmas prep on dec1st. Easy for my mind. But I did organize all the wrapping paper and the gift bags in one area and I have started on the Christmas list. I am also keeping up with power tasks and self-care❤❤❤ I cannot tell you how helpful and cheerful this is!!
Thanks for the reminder.. gifts in house but need to get to wrapping them. bedroom could use a little pupa. getting out the holiday jewelry. Your series is really helping me stay on track! See you next time!
This year is my first time hosting Christmas so I'm really excited! We're Danish but living in Australia, but really want to incorporate the Danish Christmas vibes as much as possible, nevermind the hot and humid weather, and I've got a slip and slide for the kids in the backyard 😂we're a big family, so we've started doing a Secret Santa instead of buying gifts for everyone, so we just have one person to spend for, and the budget is $50. We all buy something for the kids, so they receive lots of gifts. There's 9 kids so I'm personally not spending more than $20 each, except for my own 3 kids. My biggest Christmas spending is on all the decorations!!! help!!! haha!
Thank you for keeping me on the ball in preparation for Christmas. I keep forgetting the self care until Sunday night but have had a few lovely evenings talking with a friend or having a face mask moment. I look forward to your regular videos, they are a bright spot in my day. Thank you xxx
I have been following the FlyLady system for years now but still struggle with the zone cleaning. Nevertheless, I cleaned nearly all of the windows in the house during the last week. Feels like a relief, and my son and I did draw some Christmassy stuff with chalk pencils. So nice! 😊❤
Thanks, as always, for your weekly dose of sunshine. I am feeling unusually stressed about the holidays this year. I'm just not looking forward to them at all so I plan to have a quiet Christmas season this year.
All my Christmas gifts are bought and wrapped! I usually do them in bulk! This year I bought a cosmetics and skin care advent calender, by Caia. First time ever. I wanted to renew my own supply. Apart from that, 11 persons get a gift from that calender. For 6 men and teenage boys, I bought the Happy Socks advent calender. On Christmas eve, they will take turns pulling numbers from a bag. 4 numbers per person. And then they will open those on the calender. Normally guys need fresh socks from time to time!
Hi Diane, thank you for sharing! I’m looking forward to meet a friend today and 24 friends on Friday: a ladies group, we prepared handmade little surprises for Advents Kalenders for everybody of us, and giving an extra one for a winner of a raffle , who has given a donation for a 'water for everybody" project. Love, Monika❣
Dear Diane, my primary bdrm is already pretty clean but I do need to vacuum under the bed & wash the window. It’s raining today here in Texas so the window is tomorrow. I’m expecting a delivery from Amazon today so I’ll be wrapping gifts on Thursday. I’ve been keeping up with friends by phone & have several parties to attend in Dec. My Holiday outfits are already grouped together in my closet & holiday jewelry lives in one narrow drawer in my jewelry chest. Thanks for all the guidance. Love your videos.🎄❣️
We have bought my daughter Nick Cave goodies too. She went to see him at Leeds Arena in the UK . She is 16 yrs and was blown away with his concert and lyrics!!. I hope your husband enjoys his mug. Thank you for your uplifting video Diane xx
I tell you Diane, the run. up to Halloween can get overwhelming, but on the heels of that we have 3 birthdays in November within a week before it's even Thanksgiving... if we get through all that, before even a breath I realize Christmas is practically here! If only all these birthdays were in June or something lol...
Cleaning - I want to organize things on the desk in the guest bedroom Planning- I will work on my cards Self-care- I will get a few outfits together. I want to shorten a skirt that I am hoping to wear. Thanks Diane, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Thank you just got my hug and passed it along to my neighbor who needed one too. I have never heard of your husbands fav ? Will check him out. Do not faint but I never knew Black Friday was wotld wide❤❤❤❤❤Our holidays gifts are travel. We will be on a cruise for 14 days starting soon. When you have no children and are older cruising on holidays is very festive and popular. Easy too , with all tbe cruise ports in Florida. ❤❤❤
It's funny about Black Friday because, of course, here in Europe we don't have Thanksgiving...but it's an extra way for the stores to sell stuff ahead of Christmas! LOL!
Have cleaned my house today so I will be ready to leave the US to visit Scotland! Have finished packing and cant wait to land in Scotland on Wednesday morning!
Oh, how much I would like that my bedroom would look better than now, so I'll make some changes and some things are going out this week :-) I made a plan for what I am giving as gifts this year. And planing to bake some Christmas cake soon :-)
🎄😊 OK, be honest with me...how are you feeling about Christmas this year? Have you been following along with my planning? Feeling good or lost? It's not too late, I'm here for you! Download my weekly checklist and follow our simple 6-week series to stay on track! dianedenmark.com ⭐⭐⭐
And a big hug for you❤, for when you're making the video about your mum. ❤
I'm really looking forward to Christmas this year. I'm actively trying to do a smaller celebration, I already feel happier and am getting more done 🎉❤😊
Sending you a big hug❤
I'm looking forward to it! I've purchased some new garland for my sitting room, and am donating the old (in great shape) garland as I wanted to switch up the color palette from bright color-pop to green/gold/white.
The day after Thanksgiving I'll begin spending a little time each day placing decorations in my sitting room and bedroom.
My gifts are purchased, ready to wrap this week. Cards addressed and ready to be written a few a day...much smaller number. For many years I mailed 100+; now I send about twenty.
Happy Monday!
I'm in the US. I have done my christmas shopping - 12 pairs of insulated snowpants and 7 warm jackets delivered to a large homeless shelter (they feed and sleep about 180 people each day).
Hi . If your mom left brooches that are not your style tie pretty ribbon on them and put on your tree or maybe your kids would like them for their own trees. We did that with my moms and it’s a nice remembrance. Cheers
@ruthw3244 Thank you! I love this idea.
I did this with my grandpa’s ties!
Wonderful idea. Thank you
My Christmases become simpler and simpler, and I love that! We have reduced our gift list and the amount of holiday decor that we use. 🦋🦋🦋
You always lift my spirits. Rooting for you to get to 100,000 soon! Rah-rah-rah!
Thanks for keeping us on track!
I’m looking forward to your video about your mum…in the photos you show of her, her face just glows with an inner light. Even though she is physically absent, her light shines on and on, and you are so kind to share her with us.
Aww, thanks, Penelope - my Mum was a very special lady!
Yep
Could you make a video on jewelry rest in peace 🕊️ to your mom 💞
I really appreciate how you mention your mom in daily conversion ❤️ sometimes it seems that people find it easier to just not mention the loved ones we lost. So it is refreshing to hear you bring your mum up so naturally. Your love for her always shines trough! And our loved ones are always in our heart 😇
I spent 15 minutes in the bedroom cleaning and tidying up.🎉🎉🎉
Always feel better when I watch your videos ❤Thanks for all the love, kindness and care that you put into your work.
Sending hugs to you Diane and everyone ❤
Can't wait to see your video of your dear Mum. ❤
Thnx for all your support❤
Dear Diane, thank you for being you! ❤
@suehowe5201 Amen sister, she's awesome!! Love ya Diane 😘
Thank you for the 'permission' / suggestion in one of your videos for LED candles. I couldn't imagine lighting a candle each day but am having success with turning on my led one as I prepare coffee in the morning and dinner in the evening.
I am looking forward to your video about your mum. I lost my mum in January of 2023 and my dad on Saturday evening of this past weekend. I am reeling a bit. Losing your parents is incredibly hard no matter how old you are.
I'm so very sorry to hear that, Alison - sending you a big hug!
So sorry for your loss. May your loving memories comfort you.
I'm sorry for your loss Alison, I lost my mum 2 months ago and dad 10 years sending hugs xx
@@alisongregson4740 I lost my dad first in 2015 and my mom 39 months later. It just knocks the wind right out of you! 💔 I'm praying for you 🙏 ❤️
@@lorainkyusa yes it does indeed. Thank you!
I just love you Diane! I'm in Ohio, USA and love your personality and watching you as you declutter and go through FL zones. You are a motivation and a joy!
I'm so glad, Judy! I have two friends in the Buckeye State! 😃
@DianeinDenmark Four including Judy and me 😁
I couldn't agree more, Judy!
Look forward to seeing the video of your Mum. It’s 7 yrs on Thursday since my Mum passed. Her birthday is the 11th December so my kids and I go to the Botanical Gardens Illuminated Trail in Edinburgh every year on her birthday, a new tradition 💜
This year my kids will be getting gifts of experiences.
Sending love and hugs xx
Hi Diane. Watching your videos always cheers me up. I'm sorry about your mom passing. I'm looking forward to seeing your upcoming video. The 1st year anniversary of my mom passing will be on December 1st. We had a year of lots of changes. Including my oldest starting university in the fall. We went from a busy household of 5 to a somewhat quieter household of 3. I'm trying to prioritize self care and spending quality time with my husband and youngest. Hope you have a great week ❤ - Tal from Florida
Hi Diane from Australia! I found you about a month ago on here and love watching your videos, I have watched so many I have lost count. My husband (he is Scottish from Glasgow) comes into the room and says are you watching your bestie in Denmark again (LOL). I sensed your sadness about your Mum toward the end of this video, she is with you and shines through your beautiful brightness. Keep doing what you do, it changes lives thank you xx
Thank you, Dee!
I remembered your tip from last year Diane - wrap the presents as they arrive into the house. That made such a difference so I’m doing it again. My self care task is to paint my nails 💅 and wear my festive cosy pjs. Thank you Diane 😊
I like that you are taking charge of your feelings and finding solutions to being sad
You still look cheery:) and peppy!
I admire you for getting everything under control and that you do the ice dips! That takes courage! I get cold just watching you!
I watch your videos and learn a lot!
Thank you!🙂
Years ago, I realized I needed to switch up the zone schedule to work for my home. The two smallest zones are my entry hallway and my bathroom, so I moved them to the first and last week, respectively, because often the beginning and end of the month are short weeks. Now the larger areas of my home are bookended by the smallest and I have plenty of time to do each zone without rushing. You suggested this in one of your videos, Diane, and it works for me. Thank you!
I'm working in the master bedroom now. I already have my fur babies' Christmas outfit put together 😅 Now I've gotta work on mine. Have a great week, everyone! 👋 😊
👏👏😂
You are wholly responsible for my new hobby of checking the date that hot water bottles are made! Fascinating!! Who knew???!!!
🤣😂 tough job... somebody has to do it.
Thank you Diane for your suggestions.
Any time!
Thanks Diane I'm following these steps really helpful ❤
Week five already - thanks for all of the videos to nudge me along. 🎄
Dear Diane,
So good to see you and continue to plan for the most wonderful time of the year 💜
I will be working in the bedroom this week, as it is also the room in our apartment, where I store gifts and as parcels have been arriving, the clutter creeps up!
So task for this week: wrapping and mailing, what needs to be sent off, recycling boxes and extra packing materials, hiding gifts for the family and preparing the advent calendars for every family member 🤭
I feel like a happy elf!
All the best to you and see you in the next one :)
You are the best Diane! 🧡🧡🧡
So lovely to see you again, and a BIG hug to you too, Diane ❤
Thank you Diane for being such an encouragement and positive light in our lives. I know if I am feeling down or stuck, your videos make me smile and get up and back on track. Thank you!
Aww, THANK YOU, Kimberly!
Thank you, Diane, for the hug and the cheer. Sending a 🤗 to you. I am happy for you that you will have your brother’s family visiting this Christmas. Good to be together after losing your mum. We recently heard from one of our daughters that she and her hubby will be able to visit us. Unexpected joy! ❤
Social connections and outdoor time . ❤
Yes, so important, Denise! 👋🏼😍
I love love love you!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This time of year is tricky- first my daughters' birthdays (twins), then Thanksgiving, then Christmas!!!! You always guide me through it all. Especially enjoying your self-care ideas. xoxo
I am really enjoying your videos since discovering your channel, Diane. I find that decluttering one thing a day a very practical method since I have a 5 month old and a 3 year old! My home is very cluttered but I am determined to Declutter now that I’ve decided to adopt a minimalist mindset and this weekend I’m looking forward to cleaning the downstairs of my home followed by the upstairs next weekend, I also love your accent, my mum is from Glasgow and we live in Dublin!! Katie
Wonderful, Katie - I'm glad it's working out for you all! 🤩
Big hugs to you, too, Diane :)
I love your photos of you dearly departed mum with her happy smile, thank you for sharing her with us. I will be putting my holiday outfits together for self care because I took your advice and planned some fun holiday activites, yay! And I'll take care of the hot spot on my bedroom dresser this week. I so appreciate all you bring to my life with your videos, Daine, thank you!
Like you, I rarely wear skirts, but while shopping for a Christmas top I tried on a lovely knit fabric midi skirt that was so comfortable and warm that I decided to invest in it. I plan on wearing it at least 10 times over the next few months. I have 5 events already planned to wear it. I am well into my shopping, I had a lovely facial today and I have flipped the mattresses and spent time in the primary bedroom. So, all the boxes ticked this week. Yeah me!
I have shared your videos with my 32 year daughter I explained to her cleaning isn't an all day process but needs to done everyday. I told her about Christmas mice in the wall and she loves that idea. I love the Christmas videos. So warm and festive. I have been working in my basement preparing my tree for the front porch and decluttering as I go along. Joan
You are so right about social connections! As a widow, it is easy to feel alone in the world. Like you I connect with friends in joint physical activities such as yoga, aquafit and cycling. This year so far I am enjoying Christmas prep. at a relaxed pace with your encouraging videos.
That's brilliant, Jen - sounds like you are very active!
So appreciate you Diane! You are sunshine in a cold and cloudy Kansas day.
Big hugs to you Diane! 🎉 thank you for your wonderful videos 🙏
I have not kept up with the tasks, however, after work I prepared dinner and then I put on this video while I cleaned the kitchen and shined the sink after dinner. I made the beds, watched a little tv with DD, got her to bed. Now, I await a phone call from a friend before getting myself to bed❤. Thanks for the motivation to keep going.
Just what I needed to hear today, especially the nudge to get wrapping! I hope you’re ok, Christmas time raises so many emotions, lean into your self care this week. I’m enjoying the Anastasia Hastings novels and loving your tip of getting to know my local library. Funny how that is helping me to declutter some of my books, knowing that I can usually find them if needed. Take care xx 🌸
Thank you! You too!
Take care making the video about your mum 💕Love the idea of getting Christmas outfits together now, it’s my worst nightmare to be standing at the last minute in front of my wardrobe panicking!
Done half my wrapping and washed/freshend up my festive jumpers this weekend
So helpful Dianne, have a lovely day❤️🌿
Thank you! You too!
Thanks for getting us ready for the holidays and taking care of ourselves while doing it !
Always! 👏🤩
Thank you ♥️ and sending a big hug to you before the release of your video about your mum.
🙏😊
Thanks so much for this series. I do feel very overwhelmed with life in general, and this is helping me by just doing a little at a time. So thankful for your encouragement!! ❤️🌹
You brighten my day! 🌹😁
I did need that hug today! ❤ I sorted through my cards and have just enough to send. Will make slow and steady progress to get most ready by Nov 30th!
Hi Diane! My self care this week was a 1.5 hour walk with my brother, whom I haven’t seen in a year & a half. Chilly here - 50F and breezy, but warmer than it will be come December! So good to experience the fresh air and sunshine, plus the companionship. Back to focusing on the house tomorrow!
Sounds great, Cindy!
I’m already done wrapping gifts and writing cards. Started 5 weeks ago and it’s so liberating that all those things are done and only waiting for posting or giving. Hope you’ll have a nice week! Tomorrow i’m going to dive into my closet to look after festive clothing for me and the kids
I’m working in zone 4 with you! Nice how the tasks are easy and go along with the zones!🎉🎉🎉
Have fun, Lisa!
Diane you are such an inspiration! Your videos truly make me smile every time I watch them!!
Sadly each year that passes the Christmas card list shrinks significantly... and so do the numbers of people close to me so Christmas is bitter sweet. Thinking of you and yours, first Christmas since losing your mum. I still have a few decs up but don't do the Christmas dinner thing. My immediate family and grand kids live too far away..... so it will be cosying up with a zoom call and a large Baileys.
Thanks for keeping going with these inspirational videos. I know how the routines help with keeping on track and activity prevents ruminating. From my own experience though I would stress that rest, as well as active self care, is crucial in coming to terms with grief. Sometimes just make yourself lie down, empty your mind and rest. There's all tomorrow untouched. Very best wishes xx
Hugs to you, Diane. Thank you for this video. I've got most of my shopping done. For each Christmas since he died I have a different watercolor painting printed/copied that my DD husband painted. I give those to all the kids and grands. They love this and look forward to seeing the painting each year. And I bought my neighbor gifts from my Girl Scout granddaughter, not cookies, but nuts or chocolates. I still have only about 10 people to buy gifts for. YAY!🎉
Today is my mom’s 81st birthday so we’re taking her out for dinner. I don’t own any dress clothes so I don’t have to worry about that task. My husband is going to a work Christmas function this week, in another city, and I don’t believe that significant others were invited. Honestly, I struggle to find the joy in Christmas now. Christmas and Black Friday tv commercials started in October and everything is about buy, buy, buy and spend, spend, spend. I do enjoy sending cards and hope that our current postal strike will not be long lived so I can get them in the mail on time. 🇨🇦
Turn off your TV and phone and try a walk in nature.......
@@jenforbes661 thank you for your comment but you are assuming that my tv and phone are the root causes for my Christmas funk, which they are not. And, even though it looks like a wintery Christmas card where I live, a nature walk won’t help put the Christmas spirit in my heart but it will bring tears to my eyes from the windchill. 😭
@@tammyb6497 I am sorry you are going through a tough time
Several holiday outfits set aside. Casual to cocktails. Some T-shirts with "merry" or "cheers" in sequins for decorating and craft days. Some sparkly or dainty outfits. Lots of reds and greens and golds. Winter boots ready but wearing flipflops today (weather to change any day now.) Organized handbags last week. Still need to pair Christmas jewelry with party outfits (this week).
Gifts ready except for checks to grandkids. Need wrapping paper to disguise boxes or winter-pantry extras as Christmas present decor. (I should really wrap and hide the winter's worth of snacks from myself.). Buying and organizing extra winter nonperishables every other day so I can do a little at a time.
Starting to refresh batteries in Christmas candles and lights. I do a few each day at dusk.
Lots of appointments and grocery shopping this week, so hair and pedicure appointments must count as self care.
I feel the need to deep clean two bathrooms next week, then deep clean kitchen after Thanksgiving and turkey soup are done.
And of course, LOL every day.
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Thank you for all the reminders. Got the main family presents, not wrapped yet, waiting for my son to get Christmas boxes from the loft.
It's a bit of a lul time as I can't always get in the mood for Christmas like I used to since my hubby died 3yrs ago, very suddenly and unexpected. I do make an effort though for my son and his family.
You're helping with that too, so thank you for lifting my spirits. 🎉🎉🎉
Did a lovely declutter in my bedroom, emptied half the blanket box. So proud 😊 thanks for the encouragement ❤
Great job, Catrin!
I am OK because of your timely reminders to keep on planning (and doing!), Diane--woohoo! Your videos are part of my self-care 💙
After watching your videos for years, I’m ready to try the Fly Lady schedule with more structure a la you! I’m going to start this week and continue into 2025. I celebrate Winter with many holidays and some laissez faire Christmas traditions. I need routines in my life and am creating new ones in this chapter. Thank you for all that you give us! 🎉
Thanks for the hug. 💖
Rah rah rah 🎉 wrapping this week is my goal. Social connections is one thing I tend to let fall aside during the holiday season but I am getting better at keeping them going thanks to you ❤
Friends are a real life raft for us, aren't they, S? Always worth the effort to make time for them!
@ very true 🥰
Thank you Diane for a lovely, interesting video.
Aww, thank you, Zara!
We don't really buy gifts either. But we love spending time with each other. I am working on sending out cards now.
I am watching all your planning videos and taking notes. But I am hosting thanksgiving first so I will dive in into your Christmas prep on dec1st. Easy for my mind. But I did organize all the wrapping paper and the gift bags in one area and I have started on the Christmas list. I am also keeping up with power tasks and self-care❤❤❤ I cannot tell you how helpful and cheerful this is!!
Yay, so glad to hear it, Marsolan!
I love this idea of getting festive outfits ready! I love your Mom’s brooches too!
Thanks for the reminder.. gifts in house but need to get to wrapping them. bedroom could use a little pupa. getting out the holiday jewelry. Your series is really helping me stay on track! See you next time!
Preparing for Christmas still feels early to me but I suppose you’re right and I should get moving. Will buy cards this week.
Postal strike here in 🇨🇦 so cards are on hold. It may be emails or phone calls this year.☹️
This year is my first time hosting Christmas so I'm really excited! We're Danish but living in Australia, but really want to incorporate the Danish Christmas vibes as much as possible, nevermind the hot and humid weather, and I've got a slip and slide for the kids in the backyard 😂we're a big family, so we've started doing a Secret Santa instead of buying gifts for everyone, so we just have one person to spend for, and the budget is $50. We all buy something for the kids, so they receive lots of gifts. There's 9 kids so I'm personally not spending more than $20 each, except for my own 3 kids. My biggest Christmas spending is on all the decorations!!! help!!! haha!
Thank you for keeping me on the ball in preparation for Christmas. I keep forgetting the self care until Sunday night but have had a few lovely evenings talking with a friend or having a face mask moment. I look forward to your regular videos, they are a bright spot in my day. Thank you xxx
I have been following the FlyLady system for years now but still struggle with the zone cleaning. Nevertheless, I cleaned nearly all of the windows in the house during the last week. Feels like a relief, and my son and I did draw some Christmassy stuff with chalk pencils. So nice! 😊❤
I'm slowly following the plan, but I have lots to catch up . Thank you for your guidance.
Thanks, as always, for your weekly dose of sunshine. I am feeling unusually stressed about the holidays this year. I'm just not looking forward to them at all so I plan to have a quiet Christmas season this year.
All my Christmas gifts are bought and wrapped! I usually do them in bulk! This year I bought a cosmetics and skin care advent calender, by Caia. First time ever. I wanted to renew my own supply. Apart from that, 11 persons get a gift from that calender.
For 6 men and teenage boys, I bought the Happy Socks advent calender. On Christmas eve, they will take turns pulling numbers from a bag. 4 numbers per person. And then they will open those on the calender. Normally guys need fresh socks from time to time!
Great idea!
Thank you for the Monday motivation! 🎉🎉🎉
You are so welcome, Susan - thank you for taking the time to comment!
Hi Diane, thank you for sharing! I’m looking forward to meet a friend today and 24 friends on Friday: a ladies group, we prepared handmade little surprises for Advents Kalenders for everybody of us, and giving an extra one for a winner of a raffle , who has given a donation for a 'water for everybody" project. Love, Monika❣
Dear Diane, my primary bdrm is already pretty clean but I do need to vacuum under the bed & wash the window. It’s raining today here in Texas so the window is tomorrow. I’m expecting a delivery from Amazon today so I’ll be wrapping gifts on Thursday. I’ve been keeping up with friends by phone & have several parties to attend in Dec. My Holiday outfits are already grouped together in my closet & holiday jewelry lives in one narrow drawer in my jewelry chest. Thanks for all the guidance. Love your videos.🎄❣️
Happy Monday Diane! I love the reminders and the motivation. ❤
We have bought my daughter Nick Cave goodies too. She went to see him at Leeds Arena in the UK . She is 16 yrs and was blown away with his concert and lyrics!!. I hope your husband enjoys his mug. Thank you for your uplifting video Diane xx
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I tell you Diane, the run. up to Halloween can get overwhelming, but on the heels of that we have 3 birthdays in November within a week before it's even Thanksgiving... if we get through all that, before even a breath I realize Christmas is practically here! If only all these birthdays were in June or something lol...
Cleaning - I want to organize things on the desk in the guest bedroom
Planning- I will work on my cards
Self-care- I will get a few outfits together. I want to shorten a skirt that I am hoping to wear.
Thanks Diane, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Perfect plan - good luck with the alteration!
@@DianeinDenmark Thanks so much. You are always so kind, Diane.
I have been looking forward to this week in bedroom. My closet needs lots of attention. Yay ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉
Thank you just got my hug and passed it along to my neighbor who needed one too. I have never heard of your husbands fav ? Will check him out. Do not faint but I never knew Black Friday was wotld wide❤❤❤❤❤Our holidays gifts are travel. We will be on a cruise for 14 days starting soon. When you have no children and are older cruising on holidays is very festive and popular. Easy too , with all tbe cruise ports in Florida. ❤❤❤
It's funny about Black Friday because, of course, here in Europe we don't have Thanksgiving...but it's an extra way for the stores to sell stuff ahead of Christmas! LOL!
Ready for Christmas and all the coziness 🎄
Thanks again for an inspiring video. I went away for the weekend with my bestie and bought several gifts. Also bought some sparkly earrings.
Diane, our hot water bottles were way out of date! Thanks for the reminder! ❤❤❤
You are so welcome, Karin!
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Looking forward to Christmas. And, yes, been following through with your planning. 😊
Yay! And THANK YOU, Ruth!
Brilliant as always, Diane! My bedroom needs my attention so this is great.
Have cleaned my house today so I will be ready to leave the US to visit Scotland! Have finished packing and cant wait to land in Scotland on Wednesday morning!
So jealous of you! Scotland is on my bucket list ❤
Your videos are such a big help. I'm totally thrilled. I'm so motivated and organized this year. Thank you very much.❤ greetings from Germany
Ich auch 😉 Liebe Grüße aus Österreich ❤
Oh, that's brilliant, Jenny - glad to hear it's going so well!
Danke, Sabine!!
Diane, Thanks for the Christmas card reminder. I need to get cards for sure.
Cheers
You are so welcome, Julie - have fun with the cards!
Hope you take us shopping w u again it was so nice the shops the lights decorations.. T.Y.
I look forward to seeing your tribute video for your mum! Hugs!🫂 🎥
Oh, how much I would like that my bedroom would look better than now, so I'll make some changes and some things are going out this week :-)
I made a plan for what I am giving as gifts this year. And planing to bake some Christmas cake soon :-)