It’s a busy time of year and there is so much to accomplish on top of the everyday routines. From my experience with the women I’ve worked with, it’s the small tasks and intentionality that can make your season merry and bright, and offer peace of mind amongst the hustle and bustle. After all, Jesus is the Reason for the Season, not stress.

Plan ahead, plan ahead. No one ever said, “I wish I hadn’t been so prepared.”

Designate one area for gifts to live as they are purchased. (I’m guilty of buying and forgetting!)

Put up as much décor in one day as possible and get the storage tubs completely put back away. Don’t let it drag on.

Have a holiday calendar for the family to see and contribute to.

Keep it simple by bringing the same treat to all parties or the same decoration for each kids’ classroom party.

Order gift items and party supplies online, when appropriate, to save on time and crowds.

Set up a table as a gift wrapping station, or if you have a small home, wrap your gifts all at once so you don’t haul out the trimmings multiple times.

Plan out your week on Sunday so you can make the most of your busy days.

Resist the urge to start new home projects in December. Even though guests are arriving, you don’t need to ‘quickly’ re-vamp the home.

Plan ahead to do something special with family to celebrate the season of togetherness.

Group errands, rather than doing multiple small trips.

Schedule on your calendar when you will take down decorations. Do it in a timely fashion and put them completely away so you can start the new year with a clean home and fresh start.

Have a box for “forgotten christmas items.” After all the decor is put away, we always forget to take a decoration down and you don’t want it to float around all year.

Consider the New Year. What would be beneficial to have accomplished in order to start the year fresh?

We have so many things to be thankful for from 2016. End the year with peace on earth, not a chaotic Christmas.