How to Make a New House Feel Like Home For the Holidays
Moving during the holiday season can be especially rough. Not only are the holidays among the busiest time of year for most people, but it’s also the season we most associate with family and home. It can be tough to spend the season in a new place, especially if you’ve got years of fond memories in an old one. But, it is possible to make a new house feel like home during the holidays. If you’ve found yourself mid-move during November or December, here are a few tips for creating a place your family will enjoy spending time this season.
1. Get public areas unpacked. One of the easiest ways to make a place feel lived in and comfortable is to unpack the public spaces first–namely the living room, family room, dining room, and or/kitchen. Having at least one area completely unpacked (if not fully decorated) will give your family a place that feels “normal” to gather and celebrate together.
2. Don’t ignore old traditions. This is especially important if you have young children. So that they don’t feel like they’re missing out on the holidays this year, be sure to incorporate at least one longstanding family tradition into the season. Chopping down your own Christmas tree might feel like the last thing you want to do in the middle of a move, but it might be exactly what you (and your kids) need to get into the holiday spirit.
3. Start a new one. Symbolize the start of a happy beginning by adopting a new holiday tradition this year. If you’ve moved far away from your old home, check out what events and festivals your new neighborhood has to offer, or ask your children for ideas on how to commemorate the new chapter.
4. Accept invitations. Even if you live to entertain, now is not the time when you need to be worried about throwing a party for your nearest and dearest. It will only add unneeded stress to your life during what can already be a hectic transition (and a hectic season!). If you always host Hanukkah dinner for your extended family each year, let them know early that you’d prefer someone else take on the task this time around, or accept an invitation from another friend or family member.
