I know I was complaining on Facebook last week about folks already going crazy with Pumpkins on Pinterest when it’s still hot, hot, HOT here …
But, it’s time to face facts: summer has ended and fall is kicking in. Just thinking about the holiday craziness that is about to ensue in another two months makes me groan. So, in light of all of the insanity that will fall upon us in the not too distant future, there is a way to lessen the burden and stress–through early preparation and organization. Today’s guest post has great ideas for things you can get out of the way early.
Decorations
- You may not be able to put up the lawn decorations yet, but you can put up your lights before it gets really cold. This will save you the time later and you won’t have to worry about freezing or catching a cold when the temperatures have dropped low.
- Just wait to turn them on until after or around Thanksgiving. Then you only need to add whatever lawn decorations you might use at that time and voila! It’s all done.
Food and Baking
- Homemade cookie doughs and pies can be pre-made and then frozen for use when the holidays arrive. This will definitely save you a lot of time if you do a lot of baking around the holidays and they will keep well in the freezer.
- Take the time to plan your meals in advance. You know what your holiday traditions are; contact family members to see who is attending, so you can plan accordingly.
- Once you have those menus planned, you can make a grocery list and buy most of the items you will need ahead of time. This will save you lots of time at the grocery store later. Rachel’s North Pole Breakfast is planned in advance so that she only has to shop for the perishables when the time comes.
Gifts and Photos
- Make your gift list early and buy what you can either when you are out or online now. You would not believe how much stress you can get rid of by having that finished early. When you buy online and it is delivered to your home, all you have to do from there is wrap it up and tag it.
- Christmas cards and Christmas portraits can be done early as well. Studios are happy to get the holiday photos done early to help you avoid the rush, as they are just as busy during the season. You may even be able to talk them into a discount for getting them early.
Travel
- Make sure to plan any holiday travels in advance, way in advance. As you know, traveling during the holidays is the worst. The earlier you buy airline tickets and such, the less they cost and you can have your itinerary for your vacation planned as well.
- It is always best to plan and not “wing it” when it comes to the holiday season. Don’t forget to arrange transportation if you need a shuttle to take you to and from the airport as well. You won’t have to worry about traffic and parking if you leave the driving to someone else.
disclosure: This dedicated content is provided by guest writer, Sara Stringer.
