Simplify The Holidays

Simplify Your Holidays
3 Steps: Things to Do, Places to Go, People to See

“I wanted to bring joy to other people and decided the holidays were as much a matter of organization as they were a matter of the heart. The two work together. Organization during the holidays is an expression of the heart.”
-Marcia Ramsland

When you think about it, every activity you do for the holidays falls into 3 steps:
Step I: Things to Do
Step II: Places to Go
Step III: People to See

Step I: THINGS TO DO = Plan, Shop, and Wrap Gifts.

Take the pressure off closer to Christmas by getting these stressful chores done as soon as possible. For example:

• PLAN = Fill out the Holiday Gift Page in “Simplify Your Holidays.”
• SHOP = Order gifts or go to the mall until your list is completed.
• WRAP = Set up your Gift Wrap Center and wrap your gifts right away.

Step II: PLACES TO GO = Decorations, Cards, and Mailings.

• DECORATIONS: Put up outdoor and indoor decorations you like. Downscale them by 10% to simplify your life as you do.
• CARDS: Write Christmas cards surrounded by decorations you love.
• MAILINGS: Get gifts and cards ready to mail the night before.

Remember Monday is the busiest morning at the post office so send things at other times.

Step III: PEOPLE TO SEE = Celebrations, Cooking, and Cleaning.

• COOKING: Attend and host parties. Put your 3-5 favorite cookie recipes in your Holiday Notebook and include how long it takes to make and bake them.
• CLEANING: Clean sweep your home by vacuuming and cleaning up countertops to create a peaceful home.
• CELEBRATIONS: Grocery shop for Christmas dinner foods 5 days ahead so you aren’t stressed. Note the Holiday Turkey Menu sheet in Simplify Your Holidays under “Celebrations” that tells you what day and time to start everything. Then go out to those parties and concerts knowing you are ready to celebrate Christmas.

“The most important entertaining you will do this year, and especially during the Christmas season, will be in your own home with family.” – Emilie Barnes

So simplify your holiday preparations and focus on communicating love to your family and friends through all you do.

“Without a doubt, the best time of the year for shared memories is Christmas.” – Dr. James Dobson

Create good memories and enjoy this year’s season!

Marcia Ramsland is well known as “The Organizing Pro” for her practical skills and tips to manage busy lives. She is a speaker, author, and media guest expert appearing on TV, radio, and in national magazines for her popular books Simplify Your Life, Simplify Your Time, and Simplify Your Holidays (Thomas Nelson). Visit her website, www.organizingpro.com for free tips.