Rich in What Matters - A “Stuff-filled” Minimalist Christmas

Last week at school pick-up, I had a minimalist Christmas moment that was interpreted as rather Grinch-like.

I was chatting with other moms, when the topic of Christmas gift-related overwhelm emerged. I could relate to their angst because I'd been there (one Christmas, while visiting in-laws in Seattle before living as a minimalist, we had to buy new suitcases, fill them with our new gifts, and then fly home).

The stuff-focused vent session continued. I knew my two cents were unsolicited.

I felt called to share them anyway.

“We don't do tons of gifts. I've just asked all uncles, aunts and cousins not to buy for us anymore. And we don't buy for them. It helps keep things simple.”

Silence. I could read their reactions.

Some looked intrigued. Others looked as though I was the Grinch himself. Some nodded in agreement.

I opened my mouth to justify my minimalist Christmas ways, only to nearly have the wind knocked out of me by my five-year-old daughter's typical hug-tackle welcome.

Beaming, she held a glistening, pipe-cleaner candy cane craft up to my face. My eyes locked on hers.

The mom conversation ended emphatically as more kiddos jetted out of classrooms.

My moment to explain my “minimalist Christmas philosophy” had passed, but if I did, it would have sounded like this:

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Julia Ubbenga is a freelance journalist whose teachings on minimalism, simplicity, and intentional living have reached thousands of people worldwide through her blog. Julia also practices what she preaches in her Kansas City home. She resides with her husband, two extremely lively young daughters, three-year-old son, and baby girl. You can also find her on Instagram.