In my last blog I talked about organizing and planning the holidays with your own “Holiday Planner,” created out of a 3-ring binder that you can either decorate or buy in a fun color or design.
I also talked about writing a list of all the things you hope to accomplish for the holidays, then setting it aside and going back to cross off anything that isn’t doable or realistic. From there you write down a date next to each item you want to accomplish, which helps you put things in order of priority.
I would recommend then printing off a blank calendar page. You can find something online for free, just Google “free printable calendar page.” You are going to transfer your list onto this calendar, filling in the date in which you want something done and also including any parties you are attending, etc.
Your calendar is now laid out before you. You don’t have to wonder what you should do first. If today is November 15 and you see that by November 30 you want all Christmas presents purchased and that is the first thing that needs to be accomplished, then you tackle that.
Make your list of who you are buying presents for. It helps to create a permanent list that you can refer back to each year so that you don’t forget. For instance, one year you buy Auntie Sally something but the next year you don’t. Keep things consistent with a permanent gift-giving list.
Be sure to include not only family and friends but teachers, the person who delivers your mail or anyone else that you like to give to. Write down gift ideas. Planning ahead helps avoid wandering aimlessly in stores. Get out some ads and refer to those for gift-giving ideas. This way you can also see what is on sale.
Once you have purchased a present, put a check mark next to that person’s name. I recommend typing this up and keeping it for the following year, so that you don’t repeat a gift.
In my next blog we are going to talk about your holiday gift cards and more planning tips for your personalized “Holiday Planner.”
Related Articles:
Creating a Holiday Planner – Part 1
Stress-Free Preparations for the Holidays
The Importance of Taking Care of Your Home
Keeping Drafts Out of Your Home
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