Sunday, November 30, 2008

Holidays Infos - Handle the Heavy Work Early

By Nicole Mendari

You know from previous holiday seasons there is still a long list of things to do in order to properly prepare for the holidays. Instead of waiting until the holidays are over you, try to address some of the biggest jobs earlier when time is not as 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 there's still fallen leaves everywhere, get busy and get your garage cleaned out and organized and get the yard work completed. If you haven't 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 you'll be able to go right to them. It's also a good idea to take an inventory of their condition, and make a note to replace anything that's broken. Check your lights at this time, too. While you're at it, get out your outdoor lights, and hang them up after checking them. When the holiday season rolls around, all you'll have to do is flick a switch.

Get your indoor deep cleaning done at this time as well. If you know you'll be having overnight guests stay with you, make sure your guest room is ready for company. If you're using it to store things in, clear it out. Make sure there's available dresser drawers and closet space for your guests to put things away if they'll 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 while some may not consider dealing with Christmas cards a heavy task, it can become quite time depending on the length of your list. You can check if you have correct addresses from the beginning, but it's going to make this chore go more smoothly when the time comes. Even if you update mailing addresses, it is a good time to make sure you have the correct phone numbers and e-mailing, because both are quick ways to invite people to a feast impromptu open house or party. You might consider reviewing and stamping your envelopes in small groups while watching TV every night. That way, it will be ready to pop in the mail when the holiday season arrives.

Another task that can be addressed from the start is your holiday baking and cooking. Some baked goods freeze well when prepared in advance, like fast food, like chili and spaghetti sauce. Then, when the busy holiday season arrives, it will have some of its baking out of the way, and when you need a quick meal, you need something that can easily be found in the microwave and crock pot or can serve hot food to your family.

Tackle those big chores now so you can enjoy your holidays fully later! - 16492

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