Here we go…
1. Make a list NOW – who are you going to buy for? In this economy, many families are drawing names, making homemade gifts and avoiding frivolous spending. Put teachers, neighbors and friends on your list (It’s never the gift but the thought behind the gift that leaves a lasting memory) *Don’t even think about going Christmas shopping without a list!
2. Gather your family this WEEKEND and take a picture for your Christmas card. You cannot imagine how relieved you will feel. In the weeks to come, I am going to devote a whole Friday post to those “nightmare” Christmas letters!
3. Do your shopping in one trip. Back and forth errands waste time, gas and money (and make moms and kids very irritable!).
4. Sit down with your calendar and put all concerts, parties and gatherings on appropriate dates. Do NOT over commit yourself. One weekend night every week should be spent at home. All families need adequate sleep and down time together.
5. Check your supplies – buy wrapping paper, tape and ribbon and put it in a place where you can find it! Recently, I went to Dollar Tree and purchased 3 new pairs of scissors (they disappear in my house). There is nothing more frustrating than not being able to find your supplies when you need to wrap!
6. Look for great ornaments and decor now. How many ornament swaps have you been to and waited till the last minute to pick up an ornament? The cute ones go early! My favorite ornament stores are Wal-mart, Dollar Tree and Cracker Barrel.
7. If you are the mom of any child between the ages of 5 and 80 that want a Wii System for Christmas, start looking now and buy the first one you see. They are in short supply.
Okay…that’s our first seven… More to come! (And I, for one, can’t wait! Thanks, Amy!)
TTFN
