Last Minute Holiday Organizing
It's that time of year again. Everyone is rushing here and there to get their tasks
accomplished. Families are getting the house ready for guests and "good food." What is it
all for?
Is it an excuse to have our favorite meal?
Is it a reason to get together with family members?
Is it because it's one of the only times of year we get a break from work and school?
In my heart I believe that for everyone in the country, it's a time for all of us to think
of others. It's about love, family, time off to rest, joy, peace, showing the people in your
life that you care, and so many other wonderful things.
But somehow each year we get caught up in the hype of the
season..."things" if you will. So we shop, make cards, order online, decorate the house,
shop some more, have parties, and on and on and on...
What can we do THIS year to make things different. I for one took one day to let the "kids"
decorate. The house didn't have to be perfect this year. Decorations were done completely by
the teenagers. And they had such fun doing it! The meal will be simple with turkey, stuffing,
cranberry sauce, salad, some veggies, and of course my favorite, pumpkin pie. That's all I know
I can handle this year as the business is busier than ever, our oldest has finals, the younger
teens are in a new neighborhood and just want to "chill" (as teens say), and my husband is
working farther from home than before and won't be able to get the time off.
You on the other hand can take control of things by making a plan. That doesn't mean you
have to be rigid and unbending. However, a written schedule will definitely make it more fun.
If you PLAN your shopping trip with the family with breaks for drinks and rest in between, you
can get a lot done. Give everyone a budget on how much they can spend on the family, then allow
them to split up to shop.
As far as family and friends go. Take some time or rather MAKE some time to have a peaceful
get together before "everyone's" families start coming in for the holidays.
Do chores a little at a time. For example: Do a MAJOR bathroom cleaning the week before,
then during the week make sure everyone wipes the counters and toilet down. To make it even
easier have the pre-soaped wipes on hand. Same with the dusting. Do a MAJOR dusting NOW. Then
have washcloths or paper towels on hand with some Pledge or
Endust to do a quick dusting when the time draws near.
Maybe precook your pumpkin pies and freeze them. Then just take them out of the freezer the
day before, leave them in the refrigerator until you take the turkey out. Then put them in the
oven while everyone is eating dinner.
"We" start holiday dinner at 4:00 in our home. This way I start preparing the meal in the
morning. The kids and dad do a general straightening and wipe downs of counters and shelves,
while I'm preparing. Then the kids set the table, while I put the food in the oven.
I allow the guests to clear the table if they volunteer while many hostesses don't. It's
OKAY! Let everyone help. Then you can sit and relax and have a little socializing.
Have a GREAT holiday and don't worry if the house isn't perfect. I give you permission!
Everyone will still love YOU and your food.
Copyright © 2003 Susie Glennan - The Busy Woman, Inc.
Susie Glennan has been happily married since 1982, is mom to 3 teenagers,
and is a Home Maker, Nurturer, Teacher, Author, Professional Speaker,
Toastmaster, President of The Busy Woman, Inc., DBA - The Busy Woman's Daily
Planner®. She teaches time management seminars, offers FREE consultations
with your order, and will help you set up a schedule that's right for you.
800-848-7715 www.thebusywoman.com
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