It is hard to believe we just celebrated Thanksgiving and Christmas is just 20 days away AND I’m not ready … at least with my shopping.  I have purchased a few gifts so far but have still a whole lot more to go.  Having my Christmas Eve menu is important, but I have not fully decided on that as of yet.

I have to say I’m not worried as I will have a handle on what needs to be done to have a successful Christmas with my family and friends within the next few days.  How about you?  Are you feeling ready or are you feeling overwhelmed?

Peace and Joy for the Holiday Season!

Helping people live in peace and joy is my Coaching heart and knowing that the Christmas Season can add much stress to our lives, I decided to put on my “organizing hat” and hope to bring you some peace and joy!

Being overwhelmed as Christmas is approaching is never a good idea.  We should be enjoying Christmas and not feel it’s a burden.  That’s why planning and organizing are critical to ensure a peaceful celebration of your Christmas season!

Here’s a list … check it twice!

What are those chores and tasks that need to be accomplished so your Christmas can be a success?  Well, I’ve made a list, checked it twice and hope it will make your load lighter!

  • Decide on your budget for Christmas.
  • Make your Christmas gift list. Remember keeping track of what you buy family and friends each year is helpful.  Also, track what you spend.
  • Take your family Christmas photo and order Christmas cards if you do the “Photo” Christmas.
  • Schedule your shopping days but consider this year to support the small business owner and leave the mega stores and Amazon in the dust.  Small business owner has taken a major hit these past few years.
  • Decide on a place for storing your Christmas gifts … at least until you wrap them.
  • Find a place for storing all your Christmas shopping receipts.
  • Gatheryour wrapping paper, Christmas cards and stamps and store in one place.
  • Wrap gifts as you purchase them.
  • Purchase and wrap “on hand” gifts for unexpected guests.
  • Write out your Christmas cards.
  • Plan, schedule and invite those for the Christmas parties you host.
  • Schedule babysitter for the Christmas parties you attend.
  • De-clutter house to make room for Christmas decorations … and decorate.
  • Decorate outside.
  • Put up your Christmas tree if you use artificial. Purchase your Christmas tree if you have fresh.  Then decorate.
  • Backup pictures from your phone or camera to be sure you have space to take more pictures.
  • Prepare your guest room for your Christmas.

Preparing Your Food!

  • Review your Christmas cookie list and start baking.
  • Now it’s time to review Christmas Eve and/or Christmas Day dinner and plan your menu.
  • Check on ingredients and make list of what you need to purchase for your meals.
  • Begin to purchase ‘non-perishable’ foods.
  • Make meals and freeze for those busy times closer to Christmas.
  • Re-charge or purchase batteries for your cameras or special gifts.
  • Clean out the refrigerator to be sure you have room for your Christmas meals
  • Purchase your ‘perishable’ foods.
  • Schedule cooking times for your Christmas Eve/Christmas Day meals.
  • Set the table!

Lastly!

  • Remember to have some down time to recharge.
  • Lastly, remember the reason for the season!!!

If your planning still overwhelms you, consider hiring a Spiritual Life & Health Coach to coach you in this process to help you have peace and joy during this Christmas Season.

Have a wonderful and Merry Christmas!  I hope all your dreams for this Christmas season will come true.

Your Spiritual Life & Health Coach … Believing in You!

Organizing for Christmas!