Organization Tips for the Holiday Season

Staying organized during the hectic holiday season can be the ultimate testament to a person's ability to multi-task. Perhaps no time of year presents a bigger challenge than the holiday season, when the list of obligations increases but the amount of time in the day unfortunately remains the same. But staying organized can be a great way to save time and some of your sanity this holiday season.


To do just that, consider the following tips.

Rely on gift lists.
Don't risk having to visit the toy store more than necessary just because you forgot one or two items. Make gift lists for every person on your list. On each list, write down what the recipient wants, gift ideas, clothing sizes, favorite colors, hobbies or anything else
related to that person.

Create a holiday calendar.
This calendar will be solely devoted to the holidays.
Fill it with all your parties, shopping lists and anything else
pertaining to the holidays. That way you'll have it all in one place.

Create a meal plan.
Map out what meals and goodies you'll be making this season.
Write a list of ingredients you'll need to have ready in the
pantry and bring the list with you to the market.  Keep ingredients for a simple appetized at the ready, in case of drop-in guests. Store bought pepper jelly over cream cheese served with crackers is always a hit and can be prepared in less than five minutes.

Write a list of chores.
Organize your home by creating a list of what needs to
be decorated, what rooms need cleaning, etc.

Make a holiday binder.
Don't just stuff all those mile-long gift lists and other
organizational items into a drawer or your purse. File them away in a holiday  binder. Pack the binder away with the holiday decorations each year so you'll have it ready come next season.

Write a list of ingredients you'll need to have ready in the pantry and bring the list with you to the market.