Organizing for the Holidays

I posted this back in 2009 and it's still good advice today in 2014. Take a look!

A few tips for a less stressful holiday season!

1. Do less! If cooking a large meal stresses you out, have each guest bring a dish. Or order your meal from a local grocer and do away with cooking altogether.
2. Limit gift giving. In the current economy, who wouldn't understand your need to cut back on gift giving. Consider gift cards for out-of-town friends and family members (no shipping except the cost to mail a letter). For local friends and family, set a per person spending limit.
3. Plan ahead. Start now to plan holiday meals and other preparations. Break them down into small, manageable bites. For example, several days in advance:
   Step 1 - Select the recipes you'll prepare
   Step 2 - Create a shopping list (check cupboards for items you may already have)
   Step 3 - Shop; stick to the list!
   Step 4 - Pre-cook and freeze some dishes
   Step 5 - Find table linens; launder and iron
   Step 6 - Find pots, pans, utensils and dishes needed for the meal
   Step 7 - Day before - set table; vacuum and other last minute cleaning
   Step 8 - Day of - cook, enjoy your friends and family, and relax if you forget to put the rolls in the oven!
4. Outsource. If cleaning for the holidays stresses you out, hire a cleaning service (reserve early). Or ask about our Guest Room Transformation! Just in time for the holidays, we’ll de-clutter and turn your spare bedroom into the ideal place for weary travelers to lay their heads. You’ve got enough to worry about; we’ve got this!
5. Take care of you! You'll be more effective and more fun to be with if you feel good, are well rested and aren't stressed. Make time each day for exercise (walk, play with the dogs, dance - whatever!). Get enough sleep. Take a yoga class or meditate every day.

Get in touch with the true nature of the holiday season and bring the focus back to a more simple celebration with family and friends. Enjoy!