'Tis the Season

The Holidays are coming and its time to prepare. No, it isn’t too early. The holidays can be stressful when additional activities and chores are piled on top of an already full schedule. If you plan ahead you can lighten the load by spreading the work out over time. Here are a few tips:

• Shop early. If you start now you can catch sale prices and pay for gifts in advance. That will make you smile in January when the credit card bills arrive.
• Organize your decorations now. Gather everything together in one area. You may find that you have some duplicate items. Or you may realize that you need to replace the tree stand. This would be a good time to test the twinkle lights and check on your supply of wrapping paper.
• Plan ahead. Sending a photo holiday card? Arrange to have the picture taken now. Then order the cards early and take your time addressing them instead of having a marathon session in mid-December.
• Start purging. If you are planning to entertain for Thanksgiving, start decluttering your house now. Work on it room by room and it will relieve stress. As the holidays approach (and if your budget allows) you may wish to hire a cleaning service for a thorough one-time cleaning.
• Stock your pantry and fill your freezer for the days ahead. It's nice not to have to worry about what to serve for dinner when you are super busy. Plus it’s cheaper than take-out!
• Keep your plans simple. Use shortcuts whenever possible. Unless you enjoy making hand-made holiday cards, send a photo card or e-cards instead. When entertaining, think buffet instead of sit-down dinner. Use bagged salads and par-baked bread. Embellish food from the deli. Take it easy on yourself.
• Take advantage of online services. There are so many options. My Holiday Survival Guide lists 121 resources that link directly to sites that offer the kind of services you’ll need. There are links to help you find the best deal, shop by category, plan a party, find recipes and more.