Last night I was shopping, and with the time change even 7:00 p.m. feels like 9:00 p.m. to me—especially after a busy day of meetings and work. The store was having super deals and I was really enjoying myself. The employees were hanging up Christmas decorations which was fun to watch. I personally love the holiday season. I think one reason is because I plan for it and organize everything before that has to be done.

I am going to have a marathon for several days if not weeks giving organizing tips and organizing ideas to help make your holidays less stressful. I would love to hear from you all on how you cut down on holiday stress.

My daughter who lives in Washington D.C. called a minute ago and said she had booked her plane ticket to come home for Christmas. So my mind immediately went to where she would stay for the 10 days she will be home. I added that to my list of things to do — get ready for company. (I will talk more about this in the following days).

My first organizing idea is:

•Make a list of everything you can think of that you have to do and break it down into two sections–before Thanksgiving—before Christmas. This one simple task of making a master list will cut out a lot of stress.
•Cross off any thing that makes you crazy—if it is something that HAS to be done—delegate it.
•Include on your list some me time just for yourself.

I am excited about this holiday marathon! I will be giving organizing ideas to use not only during the holidays but organizing ideas that will help you to be organized all year long.

We would LOVE to hear from you—give us your ideas on how you cut down on stress before and during the holidays. What’s on your list today?