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The Holiday Planner




There are so many things to keep track of during the holiday season -- shopping, gift making, gift wrapping, holiday baking...the list goes on and on. That's why organization is a must. These helpful holiday guidelines are designed to make your Christmas planning a joyful process now and always



Starting in late summer with gift planning and your big craft projects and all the way through leaving a snack for Santa on Christmas Eve. Never be frantic during the Christmas rush again.




Late Summer

Start your Gift List by thinking about people's talents, travel and hobbies. To cut down on returns, update clothing sizes for everyone on your gift list. (Remember that babies will be almost five months bigger by Christmas time).

Start making those gifts that take a bit more effort...
Mr. and Mrs. Claus Outdoor Decoration
Twig Doll Furniture



September
Send away for holiday mail-order catalogs.
October
Now's the time to make more intricate decorations, like...
Door Tree
Peppermint Candy Wreath

Make a list of the ingredients you'll need for Christmas baking and holiday meals. Check your pantry inventory.



Eight Weeks Til Christmas
It's time to bake the breads, cookies and cakes you plan to freeze. Freezing Tips




Seven Weeks Til Christmas
Mark all special dates for the season on your calendar -- school and church concerts, parties, school vacations, etc.

Start collecting a basketful of inexpensive stocking-stuffers and small gifts for children and unexpected guests.

Avoid last-minute searching: Gather your favorite holiday recipes and keep them in an envelope. Make a list with page numbers of recipes in books. Note which can be made ahead of time.



Six Weeks Til Christmas
Order catalog gifts now. Most take from four to six weeks to arrive.

Buy the Christmas turkey to store in your freezer, if you have space.

Do any of your cooking utensils, serving dishes, platters, glasses and china plates need replacing
TIP -- Store nonperishable foods to be used during the holidays for one meal in a labeled bag -- easy to find when you start cooking.

Make sure all electrical appliances -- including TV, mixer, hot trays -- are in working order.

Decide what additional holiday decorations you're going to make rather than buy.
Birds 'N' Berries Window Box
Cinnamon Wreath and Garland
Satin Angel Ornament
Cornhusk Tree-Top Angel