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Blog: It's good to be back!
 Sprucing Up For the Holidays Part II
Last week I discussed a few ways we could dress up our homes for the upcoming holiday season. It seems that is always my favorite part…getting the house to feel festive, warm and inviting. There is a whole other side to the holidays which is usually the part I dread. Especially now that we have moved and once tried and true traditions have to be adjusted to allow for more travel. Most of my clients tend to agree with me that the holiday season can produce more anxiety and stress even over tax season!
Most are like me, dreading the pressure, the expectations, the exhaustion of fitting it all in. However, much like anything else we still have personal choice. We can choose who we go see, who's party we attend, what activities we will do during this time. The good news is that it can all be pretty fun if properly planned.
Before we even get there take this time to take stock of current rituals. Talk to your family members and friends to discuss what is going to be most important to everyone close to you. Ask family what they would like to see happen this year. Don't accept that some of your rituals are "just because you have always done it that way". Keep only those that are dear to your family. That is some of that pressure coming into play, right?
One suggestion is to make a list of those you really want to spend time with this holiday season. Is there an old friend you keep meaning to fit in a visit with while visiting in town with family? Make that happen this year! Who are those that really nourish you?
Do you intend to have an open house or a holiday party this year? Go ahead and start making that fit into your schedule. Plan ahead and ask for help instead of staying up all night the night before (unless you really enjoy that) to prepare yourself.
Don't feel obligated to attend someone's party because you feel guilty, this time is about spending it with those whom you really choose to spend time with.
For those you are unable to get to but want to feel somewhat in touch with, create a holiday letter or create a Facebook page for your friends and family to feel like they are sharing in the season with you.
Work smarter not harder. Take advantage of online specials, shipping gifts directly to loved ones, use online wish lists to inventory what you would like to purchase and then narrow it down to the best gift according to your needs. I still shop in the store, but take a list of exactly what I have decided to purchase so I don't end up blowing my Christmas budget with emotional spending or impromptu purchases.
Don't forget about your charities and year end monetary gifts. It is a great time to start thinking about reviewing your budget to make donations. This can represent a tax deduction if you itemize while contributing to your community or those in need.
Gift wrapping can sometimes take up a little time that you could otherwise spend doing something else. If you are able to, hire out someone to gift wrap. Many organizers will do this as a part of their service or you may even think of asking your favorite teenager who could use a little spending money?
Once you are clear on your schedule and needs put them on a calendar. Create a plan that allows you to bust these goals into smaller tasks, being done a little at a time instead of last minute when it all seems a bit overwhelming. It takes the stress out of the 4-6 week period we call the holidays!!
posted on: 11/5/2009 2:00:00 PM by Melissa Searcy
category: Family
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