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"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, Simplify Your Life
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 "My Holiday Notebook."
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 the Holiday Notebook 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!
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