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!
About the Author: Kimberly Danger is the owner/publisher of Mommysavers.com, and online resource for parents interested in saving time and money.
For over 995 more ways to save, check out Kimberly’s book 1000 Best Baby Bargains.
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