Handle the Heavy Work Early and Head off Holiday Stress

You know from previous holiday seasons that there is always a long list of things to get done in order to properly prepare for the holidays. Instead of waiting until the holidays are upon you, try tackling some of the bigger jobs earlier when time isnt so pressing, and relieve some stress in the process.

Have you completed all of your fall housecleaning chores yet? If your garage is a mess and you have no idea where you buried the Christmas decorations and theres still fallen leaves everywhere, get busy and get your garage cleaned out and organized and get the yard work completed. If you havent already done so, prepare your outdoor plants for winter, drain your hoses and sprinkler systems, and clean your garage completely. It will make the hunt for the holiday decorations a non-issue because youll be able to go right to them. Its also a good idea to take an inventory of their condition, and make a note to replace anything thats broken. Check your lights at this time, too. While youre at it, get out your outdoor lights, and hang them up after checking them. When the holiday season rolls around, all youll have to do is flick a switch.

Get your indoor deep cleaning done at this time as well. If you know youll be having overnight guests stay with you, make sure your guest room is ready for company. If youre using it to store things in, clear it out. Make sure theres available dresser drawers and closet space for your guests to put things away if theyll be with you for an extended period of time. This is also a great time to put away summer clothing and bedding items and get out your heavier clothing and bedding.

And though some might not consider addressing Christmas cards a heavy chore, it can become quite time consuming depending on the length of your list. If you can verify youve got correct addresses early on, itll make this chore go more smoothly when the time comes. While you are updating mailing addresses, its a good time to make sure youve got correct phone numbers and e-mailing addresses as well, as both are quick ways to invite people to an impromptu holiday open house or party. You might consider addressing and stamping your envelopes in small groups while watching TV each night. That way theyll be ready to pop in the mail when the holiday season arrives.

Another chore that can be tackled early on is your holiday baking and cooking. Some baked goods freeze very well when prepared ahead of time, as do quick meals such as chili and spaghetti sauce. Then when the busy holiday season arrives, youll have some of your baking out of the way, and when you need a quick meal, youll have something that can easily be popped into the microwave or crock pot and can serve a hot meal to your family.

Tackle those big chores now so you can enjoy your holidays fully later!

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