Do this NOW to get ready for the holidays
It’s October and we are starting to see twinkling lights on holiday trees. It’s tempting to wait for the day after Thanksgiving. There’s a big list ahead of you. Capitalize on the time by getting ready in small ways for the holiday. Stretch your preparation time forward into October. Do this NOW to get ready for the holidays.
Write out your holiday lists.
Start with a budget, gift list, a card list and activity lists. A budget is a guideline for what your expenses will be this holiday. It’s your way of keeping financially responsible when it’s easy to go off track. Your gift list includes all those you will be exchanging with or thanking with a gift. This can include teachers, hostesses, hair person and others. Your holiday card list needs tweaking with updated addresses. An activity list adds meaning to your holidays. Know that happens when and create a holiday calendar to share with your family. You can keep these lists in a holiday notebook. These are your guide posts for the season ahead.
Take your holiday card photos and choose a holiday card
Holiday cards are a joy to receive. Your family photo is a special way to share what’s happened this year. Now is the time to take the photo. It’s great weather to be outside for the background. It’s the first step for this holiday project. Check online for possible cards. There’s an array of choices and it’s the next step to decide on your card too. Get this mini project checked off and ready to go.
Shop holiday craft bazaars
This month is filled with the joy of holiday crafts and goodies. Use this time to check out local vendors to support local crafts people. There’s treats for parties and hostess gifts. There are theme gifts special for the holidays. Holiday craft bazaars also get you in the holiday spirit. You can find a list of local holiday markets online.
Check out local resources
Maybe this year you want to have a local restaurant make the Christmas Eve lasagna. Maybe this year you want to have a cleaning service come in and deep clean the week before you have company. Think about what help would make a difference for you this holiday. It’s a gift you give yourself to be able to enjoy the holiday fully. Now is the time to gather resources and referrals for extra help.
Make a plan
Whether it’s logging onto 101 Days To Christmas or simply sitting with your calendar, now’s the time to make a plan for the holidays ahead. Each holiday season we vow to be more organized and more productive with our time. October is the time to talk to your family about simple holiday traditions, about what’s special to them and then prioritize these activities. Add dates to your calendar, purchase tickets for the Nutcracker, and decide when you will pull out the decorations. A plan, a list and a calendar keep us in control during the holiday season.
What are you doing NOW to get ready for the holidays?
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I’ve ordered my cards, and am in the process of updating my addresses so I can print the labels. I’m also trying to get as much of the shopping and wrapping done as possible. This is also a good time to shop for a holiday/party dress, sweater, or blouse, rather than running around the day of a party and finding there is nothing in your size! I always feel that a strong October is the key to a smooth holiday season.
You are so right! A strong October makes you feel ahead of the holidays.