The big day is a month away
Christmas is about a month away which can be a joyful, stressful and busy time. I have come up with some planning tips help to reduce the stress and make your holiday season run smoother.
- Plan what events you would like to host, attend – send out invites, RSVP and mark it on your calendar.
- Potlucks can be an amazing option to reducing cost and workload.
- Gift purchasing list- who would you like to purchase gifts for or make; write down ideas and try to shop the sales.
- Budget – make a budget that is reasonable and stick too it to reduce financial strain come January. Use retailer and credit card points and coupons to help pay for Christmas, if you can.
- Meal Plan and pre-made meals- instead of doing the big dinner or breakfast during the big day pre-make breakfast casseroles, stuffing, mashed potatoes, bacon & sausage, baking and appetizers and freeze for easy heat and serve gatherings.
- Make a grocery list of items that are needed; don’t forget the basics like toilet paper. You can do your nonperishable groceries in smaller shops, so it’s more manageable.
- Purge decor you are no longer using. As you decorate and see the items that get left in the Christmas bin, donate or sell them if they no longer fit in your space or bring you joy.
- To bring a little joy to your life this December, have an advent calendar or goodies to fill your own if it is one of your Christmas traditions.
- If you’re planning to give back this season what does that look like? A monetary donation (which can be a Charitable tax receipt). Giving your time and services to help others and give back. There are many worthy causes in the Lumby community including Whitevalley Community Resource Centre who support community members who need a little extra help during the holiday season, as well as the food bank, to name a few.
- Start writing Christmas cards and get them in the mail or ready to be hand delivered. (maybe this year try an e-card!)
- If you are having guests stay over or coming for an event, make a task list ahead of time so you can slowly work on the items and not feel overwhelmed as the date gets closer.
- Put up your Christmas lights and outdoor decorations up early (ahead of the snow) and ready to be lit up, wreath or swag on the door.
- Check your wrapping paper stash and scotch tape and set up a wrapping spot in your house so you can wrap as you go to save the Christmas eve headache.
We hope these suggestions help ease some of the holiday stress! We wish you a joyful and happy holiday season in however you choose to enjoy the season.
If you or a senior you know would like more information on winter programs, please call Whitevalley Community Resource Centre
(250) 547-8866.
