Lighting Up Our Neighborhood Tradition

Hello, friends! As the owner of Life Simply Planned, I know how easily the holidays can become overwhelming. But I also know the deep, simple joy that comes from creating meaningful traditions—especially those that bring a community together. And what better way to kick off the festive season than with a simple, bright celebration right in your own front yard?

For us, the holiday season officially begins when we gather with our neighbors to light up our Christmas tree.

A Simple Idea, A Big Impact

Eight years ago, when my family moved into our home, I was eager to meet the folks in our 300+ home neighborhood. It was my incredible Nana who offered the perfect solution: Start a tradition.

Thanks to my Nana's suggestion, and my love for a party, we opted to host a simple, front-yard gathering focused around a Christmas tree lighting. It was a brilliant, low-pressure way to welcome everyone, and that initial simple desire to meet our neighbors has blossomed into an annual tradition we now look forward to more than any other.

Keeping the Cheer Simple and Sweet

The beauty of this event is its simplicity. We keep the focus on comfort, community, and giving.

For the kids (and the young at heart!), we set up:

• 🍿 An outdoor holiday movie screening.

• ☕ Plenty of hot cocoa.

• 🍪 Delicious cookies.
  

And, of course, for the grown-ups, we make sure to have adult beverages welcomed and ready! It's a relaxed, easy atmosphere where families can mingle, chat, and finally put faces to the names they see on their morning walk.

Gathering for a Greater Good

What started as a meet-and-greet has grown into something even more meaningful: an annual donation opportunity.

My children and I cherish this time together, not just for the holiday cheer, but because it's a simple, tangible way for us to give back. Each year, we encourage our friends and neighbors to bring a donation for a wonderful cause.

This year, we are proud to support Cradles to Crayons, an organization that provides children living in homeless or low-income situations with the essential items they need to thrive—at home, at school, and at play.

It's a beautiful cycle: we welcome our neighbors, enjoy simple holiday fun, and collectively contribute to those who need it most.

From our family to yours, we wish you a simply planned and joyful holiday season!