If you’ve been following any sort of twelve-month plan you should be able to avoid the packed stores in December and the big bills in the New Year. All that’s left to do is mail out cards with a family photo, decorate the house, put up the tree, finish wrapping the presents and enjoy the season! Does that sound a bit too organized?
Hopefully you’ve started preparing for the Christmas season in advance. Shopping for sales during the year and making small purchases here and there instead of waiting until the last moment.
It’s important to focus on the true meaning of Christmas and not get caught up in the busyness of the season.
Even if you’re not completely ready there are still many sales going on this month to help you out. From the day after Thanksgiving stores have huge sales in hopes of boosting their holiday retail sales. You can find everything from toys to computers, shoes to perfume and crystal to party food on sale.
For the next few weeks as we get closer and closer to the big day take a few moments each day to prepare. If you’re sending out cards organize your mailing list. Take an evening to address the envelopes or print out labels on your computer.
Finish up the shopping and make food plans. If possible freeze some extra meals for the weeks ahead. Make and freeze cookie dough. Finish up the shopping and the wrapping of presents. Remember to keep it simple.
The day after Christmas is the perfect time to clean up on holiday décor, candles, wrapping paper and inedible gift items. It’s become a tradition for me to purchase the Christmas wrapping paper after the big day. It’s one less thing I need to think about as the holidays approach.
I also keep a Christmas notebook. I use the same notebook year after year until it is filled. I keep track of the family and friends I purchase gifts for. I also keep track of the gifts received each year. It’s a place where I can mark if thank you cards have been sent and jot down ideas I have for gifts throughout the year. I suppose I could also do this on the computer, but for me the notebook works well.
What tips to you have for enjoying the Christmas season?
Linked To: ServingJoyfully, FeedingBig
Nancy on the Home Front 