About a year ago, I wrote about taking time for a planning retreat each week. By retreat, I mean just an opportunity to retreat from the busy-ness of your everyday into a quiet, thoughtful place. Whether that means retreating into your bedroom alone for a couple of hours or packing your clipboard/binder for a trip to a coffee shop or the library, time alone can really be a productive time to plan out the things in the week(s) ahead. While planning consistently for the daily and weekly needs of a family or business are vital, planning ahead for a smooth holiday season is a crucial step to a smooth and enjoyable Christmas.
There are several things that require our attention when planning for Christmas. You can use this printable page to help you get started brainstorming and taking steps toward being ready for Christmas. Some of these things you may feel ready for and others may need more time.
- Cards
Although this is a completely optional part of the holidays, many people find it the perfect way to stay in touch with friends and loved ones both near and far away. This week, focus on choosing a card or design, purchasing materials and stamps, scheduling a photo opportunity, addressing envelopes, writing an update on your family, and assembling the cards. Please keep in mind that nothing completes a holiday card like a personal note to each recipient. - Gifts
Inventory the gifts you’ve purchased throughout the year. Sit your family down with catalogs to discover what is first on their Wish Lists. Create your own thorough Gift List with space for each person you plan to make or buy gifts. Don’t leave anyone off. You’ll only cause stress if you have to make a last-minute run for a forgotten gift for your child’s bus driver. Begin shopping online and in stores whenever you are able. - Cooking/Baking
It may seem as though you’ve been cooking for a month straight by this time. However, the pinnacle of the holiday season is right about this time, and there are few associations with special occasions as important as food. You’ve already planned the menu and the ingredients are stocking your pantry and refrigerator. Now it is time to apply the magic of food preparation to create mouth-watering memories and continue traditions that have been passed down for generations. - Cleaning/Decorating
With the American celebration of Thanksgiving this week, there will be a lot of home preparation as many people will be hosting feasts involving their dearest friends, neighbors, and family. Once the turkey has run its course in leftovers, Christmas decorations of all shapes and sizes will begin to emerge from basements and attics. Vowing not to put anything out until it has a dust-free surface to rest on is a good motivation for thoroughly cleaning your house in time for the holidays. - Meal Planning
You can cover two holidays in one sitting if you will take this week to make both your Thanksgiving menu and Christmas menu. Don’t forget any cookies/candy or food gifts you may have planned for December. Gather all of your old family-favorite recipes. Scan the internet for new possible food traditions. Once your menus are established, create a shopping list for each menu. Note which recipes can be made ahead and schedule baking days. - Party Planning
Whether it is a brunch, an afternoon tea, a cookie exchange, or an evening gala, many people will find themselves host to some type of holiday event. Guest lists must be made, invitations sent, menus created, activities scheduled, and a myriad of other details must be confirmed. This is the week to lay it all out on paper and begin to take action. - Events
The holidays are a fun time of year. There are special theatrical performances, seasonal activities, and family and community gatherings. Take it in. Experience the holidays. One of the rewards for planning ahead is the opportunity to relax a little and enjoy the celebration. - Giving
What are the holidays if not an opportunity to give? Yes, there are expectations from family members. Yes, there are traditions that must be carried out. However, if we forget that the meaning of the holidays is to give, whether it be through some sacrifice of our time, our abilities, or our resources, we forego the happiness we allow for ourselves and others. It truly is better to give than to receive.
How do you plan for your Christmas?
