By Gwen Burckley-Gibson

Every year, the holidays seem to arrive faster than the last. I used to start shopping in July, but in recent years, I’ve switched to ordering presents online. It’s such a time saver! Here are my top tips for a (mostly) stress-free holiday season:

1. Order Presents Online

I love Amazon for its instant price comparisons and one-click purchase option. I have the app on my tablet and phone for quick shopping at any time. It helps to have access to your children and grandchildren’s “wish list” on Amazon. Additionally, being able to view previous orders helps keep track of what’s in hiding, waiting to be wrapped!

2. Pre-Plan Holiday Meals

Planning holiday meals well in advance is crucial. I save my menu plans, shopping lists, and “day of schedule” from previous years on my computer. All I have to do is a bit of adjusting, and in just a few minutes, I have this year’s plan printed out and ready to go.

3. Explore New Recipes

Searching for new recipes on Pinterest and Yum is a great way to spice up your holiday meals. Both apps are on my tablet and phone, making it easy to search at any time and save recipes for later reference.

4. Delegate Meal Preparation

Assigning some of the meal preparation to family and friends can lighten your load. You don’t need to have complete control; it’s much easier when everyone pitches in. They appreciate the chance to help. Be sure to consider their preferences and abilities when assigning tasks. You might even ask about their favorite holiday recipe and suggest they make it ready to serve.

5. Stay Healthy During the Holidays

As someone who is somewhat of a germaphobe, I take Zinc and extra Vitamin C daily to help ward off colds. Zicam swipes are great if you’re going to be out in public. Of course, I keep disinfectant wipes and antibacterial gel in the car. I abhor being sick, and it’s very rare that I am.

6. Send Real Greeting Cards

E-mail greeting cards are nice, but they do not replace the real thing, in my humble opinion. Special people deserve special treatment. I’ve whittled down my list over the years, but I still save it as a spreadsheet on my computer. I print the envelopes, but I always add a personal greeting to each card.

7. Family Newsletters

Family newsletters are a wonderful idea! While I personally do not have the time to create one, if everyone contributes and one person compiles it, it would be a lovely addition to your greeting cards.

8. Embrace Gift Bags

Whoever thought up gift bags is a genius! I save them every year. My children laugh at this, but it saves money and time. Yes, we flatten and save the tissue paper too!

9. Schedule Relaxation Time

Amidst the holiday hustle, it’s essential to schedule time to relax. A hot bath with Epsom salts soothes tired muscles. A manicure and pedicure at the spa feels luxurious. At least an hour set aside on the day of the event for primping and deep breathing is a must.

10. Hire Help for Cleaning

Consider hiring someone to assist with pre-holiday and post-holiday cleaning. Even if you can only afford to have them deep clean bathrooms and address the baseboards, windows, and fans, it’s worth the investment. Be sure to read our article on “How to Hire Domestic Help” before inviting strangers into your home.

If you live in the Greensboro, High Point, Winston-Salem NC area contact MAIDinNC for a house cleaning service.

Conclusion

With these tips, you can enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable holiday season. Remember, it's all about creating memories and cherishing time with loved ones.

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Have a Stress-Free Holiday!!