By Deb Powell
First: WE REST!!!
Then we organize.
DON’T PUT EVERYTHING AWAY!
Wait, what?! Yes, that’s what I said. Snowmen, angels, greenery, grape vine bows, mistletoe, reindeer… are also winter decor (if they’re not too Christmassy), so leave some of them out. Even lights can create a beautiful atmosphere. This also makes less work for now, and keeps some of the beauty and magic alive. Remember to diffuse or simmer nice scents: vanilla, pine, cinnamon…
Christmas tree, decorations, and items:
- Pack all decorations carefully for storing
- Donate things you have too many of, or are tired of
- Throw out damaged items
- Label things and put away in order of getting them out next year
- Put delicate things in boxes, egg cartons… unused hard suitcases are great also
- Kitchen: wash and pack away tea towels, bowls, cutting boards, mugs, oven mitts…
- Bedrooms: put away throw pillows, blankets, lamps…
- Other rooms: put away anything that is holiday specific
- Donate or re-gift non suitable and unwanted gifts
REST!
Organize the New Year: Let’s make it the best year ever!
- Clean as you put decorations away, or, have a separate time for that
- Write thank you notes, and/or send Christmas cards… it’s nice to get them after the rush is over
- Visit those you didn’t have time for during the holidays
- Figure out your holiday credit charges and pay them off as soon as possible
- Make notes of what you will do differently next year
- Get organizing for the winter: Make plans, verify or adjust resolutions, take classes, start lessons, learn a craft, work on a project…
- Plan spring gardening and/or landscaping
- Reflect on the past year and see how you can improve your life, health, relationships…
REST!
Create a Communication Centre… Clear communication is the key to a peaceful household
The kitchen is usually best, or by the main door. It’s easy, inexpensive, and fun!
You’ll need:
- Chalk board or white board to post things, and leave notes…
- Wall calendar with all meetings, events, appointments…
- Posted list of family and emergency numbers
- File or bin for each persons’ mail or stuff (small things)
REST!
If you didn’t rearrange the furniture for the holidays, now is a great time… A fresh look for a new season! When I rearrange, it’s like I have a new home!
Watch for February’s article: 3 Areas of the Heart
Questions and feedback welcome — debmag04@gmail.com