Christmastime Already?
by
Kimberly Danger
As a parent,
Christmas seems to get busier and more stressful every year. There are so many
errands to run, things to buy, and functions to attend. What is supposed to be
the season of comfort and joy usually ends up being the season of stress and
anxiety. The following is a run-down of simple things you can to prepare now,
freeing up your time to enjoy the season later!
Start Your Holiday Cards
If you include a family picture with your holiday cards, get yours done
before November. That’s when the studios really start to book up. Many online
photo retailers offer specials for ordering your picture cards early, too. Also
make sure your address list is updated and get all your cards addressed, stamped
and ready to stuff at the last minute. Visit our
Photo Codes forum
thread to get coupon codes and free prints.
De-Stress Your Dress
Chances are you’ll
have at least a couple holiday functions for which formal or dressy-wear is a
must. Don’t get stuck scrambling at the last minute for something to wear to
your husband‘s holiday party, or making a quick run to Target for your
daughter's tights before church. Make a list of all the holiday
functions/parties/programs you and your family will be attending, and what
clothing will be needed. Make sure you have everything you need well ahead of
time.
Entertaining?
If you plan on throwing any parties for friends of family, there are a few
things you can do ahead of time to minimize stress. Shop for napkins, plates,
and other paper goods ahead of time. Will you be needing any decorations,
centerpieces or table accessories? Those can be purchased as early as October as
well. Plan your menu ahead of time and make your shopping list. That way, it
will be ready to go when you are. You can even bake certain things ahead of time
and freeze them.
Company's Coming
If you will be
having friends and family stay with you over the holidays, make sure their
accommodations are they way you want them to be. Clear the junk off the bed in
the guest room, put on clean bedding, and with a little last-minute cleaning
you’ll be set to go.
Finish Up Your Shopping
For me, Christmas shopping starts on December 26th. I spend all year
scouting the perfect gifts for each family member and tucking them away for when
the season rolls around. Make your list early, and cross off each recipient once
their gift is found. Don’t forget to add teachers, babysitters, and other
special people to your list. By shopping early, you can also spread out the cost
over a several months so you’re not hit with a huge credit card bill in January.
You also won’t be panicking come December 23rd that you haven’t found the
perfect gift -- you’ll have more time to look for the perfect thing. Finish up
your shopping by Thanksgiving, and you’ll also avoid crazy crowds at the mall.
Let the Wrapping Begin!
Once you have your gifts bought, there’s no reason not to wrap them! When
wrapping gifts far in advance, it’s easy to forget what is inside. A simple
solution: place a Post-it note on the gift noting its contents.
De-stressing the holidays is a simple as planning ahead. By starting now, you’ll
have more time in December for enjoying the season as it was meant to be
enjoyed: spending with time with friends and family and spreading good cheer!
advertisement
|
