Yes, I know. Christmas is over. But this Redfin article by Pablo Alvarez provides some great ways for spicing up Christmas traditions and – since it’s only January – we have plenty of time to ponder and plan. I was invited to contribute to the article and chose to share a fun tidbit I learned from my mother-in-law…read on! 😉
As the years go by, it can sometimes feel like the magic of the holidays has disappeared and stayed behind in our childhood. With our busy schedules, endless to-do lists, and the commercialization of the season, the warmth and wonder that once made the holidays special feels like a distant memory. However, as adults, we ultimately decide how we want to experience Christmas. We are no longer the kids depending on our parents to set the mood; we must create it. We’ve polled the experts on getting into the holiday spirit and how to carry that magic with us through the year.
As Ana McRae says, “Christmas can quickly become overwhelming if we’re rushing through it, but the magic lies in slowing down. As a busy entrepreneur, mom, and wife, I’ve found that giving yourself permission to unplug from work and revisit childhood traditions makes the holidays feel meaningful. You get to decide how you want the season to feel and make choices that create that experience. For me, it’s about pausing the daily grind to connect with loved ones, sip hot chocolate by the fire, or enjoy the snow. Focus on the simple joys, and you’ll find your festive spirit returns.”
This year, let’s rediscover what makes this season truly magical. This Redfin article will give you advice on regaining that sense of wonder for the holidays we celebrate. So, whether you celebrate in an apartment in Chicago, a new home in Kansas City, or a rental home in Nashville, this Redfin article will advise you on regaining that sense of wonder.


KRISTI and husband Tim were married in 1988 and live in Iowa, where they love doing life with their three sons, three daughters-in-law, six grandkids…and two very spoiled dogs. She is a teacher and instructional coach by day and a “Laughing Grandma” by night, writing to inspire grandmas to laugh without fear of the future as they plant the joy of Jesus in the hearts of their families (Proverbs 31:25). Kristi is the author of The BeforeBooks for children and Your Soul To Keep, a one-year prayer workbook for parents of adults. Connect with Kristi at kristi@thelaughinggrandma.com
