Organizing Tips for Thanksgiving

This is the week to make final plans for Thanksgiving.  Next week begins the preparation.  As you get ready for the big day there are some good organizing tips to remember.
1.  Keep good records of your planning.  This is especially important if you are entertaining at your house.  If you use a computer, you can keep a folder just for this holiday and include files regarding guest list, menu, recipes, grocery list, decorations, time schedules,etc.  If you prefer paper files, create a master folder or notebook and have a section devoted to each of these items.
2.  Make notes as you prepare your house and meal.  I print out my menu, grocery list and recipes and make notes directly on them as I proceed throughout Thanksgiving week.  If I forgot something that should have been on the list, I write it in.  If I should have invited someone that I left off, I make a note of that, etc.
3.  After the celebration, I update my files to include my evaluation of what happened.  If I had too much turkey but not enough dressing, I make a note of it.  If I didn't allow enough time for the ham to cook, I note that on my time schedule.  Anything I can think of improving or changing is recorded on the files so that I won't make the same mistakes again.

Keeping good records, notes and updates now can save you time, money and energy the next time you have your Thanksgiving feast.

Holiday Planning for October

Before the Halloween costumes are put on sale, many retailers have already displayed their Thanksgiving and Christmas decorations.  Unfortunately this means the best selection for those items are available now and some desirable items may be sold before we are ready to use them.

One item that should be purchased early is holiday cards.  Consider purchasing one style for most or all of your list to make the task easier to accomplish.  Gifts that need to be sent out of town should also be purchased early so mailing deadlines can be met.  This is especially true for those shipped out of the country.

Planning on using items already in the home as part of holiday decorations will save time, space and money.  Adding holiday bows to candles, lamps, railings, etc. is one simple way to add color and a festive atmosphere rather than purchasing special items to fill those spaces.  Planning now will make that activity easier later on in the season.