You know that agonizing “Why didn’t I do this sooner?!” feeling that sets in riiiight around December 18th? We’re all about avoiding that, and the key is getting started on everything holiday related as early as possible. That doesn’t just mean shopping for gifts in advance (though that’s certainly helpful.) It also means getting your kitchen, your closet, the play room, and the rest of your house ready for the season as well. Here are 6 clever ways to plan ahead.
featured image by kristen kilpatrick
Stock Up On Gift Wrap, Cards and Shipping Supplies
Wrapping paper, check! Mailers in different sizes, check! All the tape, check check check! Save yourself a dozen trips to the craft store and post office by stocking up on everything you need from the get go, including blank seasonal cards that can be easily inserted to any wrapped gift. This also means consolidating and recycling anything left over from last year.
Spruce Up Your Spices
When’s the last time you took proper inventory of your spice cabinet? Next time you have 20 minutes to spare, go through your stash, consolidating, tossing, and replenishing as needed. Make sure you’ve got plenty of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and cloves for all your winter treats.
Tackle the Toys
With Santa coming soon, now is the perfect time to dive into the dreaded playroom or toy storage closet. Pick out anything and everything that your kids have outgrown or that would cheer up a child in need, and donate it all in time to make room for the new stuff!
Stock Up On Just-In-Case Gifts
Candles, great soap, cozy socks — these are items that people are always happy to receive. Stock up on a handful of universally loved gifts — and already have them wrapped! — for spontaneous visitors, teachers you’ve forgotten, or last minute holiday party invites.
Closet Cleanout
Why wait until springtime to do a wardrobe purge? This time of year, socks, sweaters, coats and blankets are more in-demand than ever, and we’re willing to bet you could stand to get rid of a few of those bulky items in order to make room for new seasonal purchases. Go through it all, and sell, donate, or recycle what you can to avoid an out-of-control closet.
Meal Prep Like a Pro
Cookies, soup, slow cooker recipes — they can all be made in advance and then stashed in the freezer. Do this meal prep early in the season, and enjoy delicious and nourishing dishes with ease all winter long.
