When I’m in the early stages of thinking about decorating for Christmas, before I pull out the bins or lights, faux greens, and ornaments, I usually feel pretty resolved that I’m going to keep things simple. As you may notice if you visit my blog regularly, I’m always busy with something.  When Thanksgiving is over, and the calendar turns to December, I’m already looking forward to the post-Christmas slow-down.  The glorious lost week between Christmas and New Year’s Day, when I clear the calendar completely, say no to almost everything, and reserve that time for myself, my family, and rest.  We binge-watch our favorite series, chip away at a puzzle, eat leftovers, and stay in our jammies all day.  Just thinking about that week makes me want to take the ramp-up to Christmas gently. And, in all honesty, I’ve spent over fifteen years decorating and making things for Christmas as