It’s that time of the year to start getting organized for Christmas. This is a really fun time for families to relax and enjoy the holidays together, but it can be a little overwhelming. I know it has been for me. I started gathering my Christmas list from my children, and other family members, so I can get a head start on gift buying.
First, I review what I purchased last year for each family member to make sure I don’t buy duplicate items this year. I used a Christmas gift tracker, so I can keep track of what I have purchased throughout the years. Consider one like this.
My goal is to have all my out-of-town gifts purchased, wrapped, and shipped by December 5. I want to ensure that I have allowed enough time for shipping, etc. The next items I am focusing on purchasing are for local friends and family. I have been using a lot of Amazon deals and steals and have been shopping from various bloggers, like Alicia Wood, who has a great list of Holiday Gift Guides on her website.
The other overwhelming part of Christmas is getting the house decorated and organized. Our family likes to enjoy one holiday at a time, so we do not decorate for Christmas until after Thanksgiving. I have a family tradition and order a Swarovski crystal ornament every year, so I get that ordered by December 1. I have been collecting these ornaments since 2001. As an organizer, I don’t typically collect anything, but this is one thing that I do collect.
The first week of December is also a great idea to get your holiday wardrobe in order. Go through your closet and figure out exactly what would be appropriate to wear for specific parties you have coming up. Take inventory and maybe add a few pieces of jewelry in to change up what you already have! Of course, donate/sell any items you want to purge.
The next task at hand around December 10 is to start building my holiday menu. Build your guest list for dinner, order flowers, take inventory of your tableware and assess what you need. I like to use a lot of the same colors every year and I end up just changing out my napkin holders and adding fresh flowers.
Last, but not least, don’t be married to your to-do list. Enjoy the holiday season with your friends and family and don’t get stressed out about the details. Nobody notices if things are missing or off but you.
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