It’s {almost} the most wonderful time of the year!

You can feel it in the air! Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and Christmas will not be far behind.

There is something about this time of year that magnifies the love around us. I am reminded of how grateful I am for family, friends, health, etc.

I absolutely love this time of year, but in order to keep  myself from getting overwhelmed, I have a few must-do tricks.

Make a list, and check it twice 😉

I suggest creating a list of  everyone you plan to send a Christmas card to.  Buy enough Christmas cards to send to everyone on your list. I suggest buying about 5 or so extra. That way, if someone sends you a card who wasn’t on your list, you already have what you need to put a card in the mail to them on short notice. Keep some extra stamps handy, as well!

Plan your presents

Write down the name of everyone you plan to buy a present for. Brainstorm some gift ideas for each person.

I like to do this before Thanksgiving – for three reasons.

1. This gives me plenty of time to browse around and find the perfect gifts
2. It allows me to take advantage of the black Friday deals – preferably online shopping. [More on this at a later date]
3. It gets me into Christmas spirit – which is just my favorite! Giving to others without expecting anything in return is one of the most beautiful parts of the Holiday season.

Mark your calendar

Make your plans for the Holiday and mark your calendar. If you are going to someone’s house, ask or let them know what you can bring. If  you are cooking or baking a dish to pass, pick up the ingredient ahead of time so that you avoid finding you’re missing a key ingredient at the last minute.

Be mindful of your mindset

Remind yourself that this is one of the most beautiful, wonderful times of the year. Embrace the love and magic this season has to offer, and share it with others.  Even just a smile to a stranger or buying someone’s coffee at the Starbucks drive thru – though it may seem like just a small act, it could absolutely make someone day. That kind of simple generosity is contagious, and that is exactly what the Holiday season is about.

Simply,

lindsay nicole