By: Janet L. Hall

Create and Post a Chore Chart
Make a list of everything that needs to get done to prepare for guests, parties, decorating, gift buying, card sending, or travel:

• de-clutter and prepare guest bedroom and bath, clean rooms, buy or bake a gift, shop via the Internet or shop during a time when less people are out and about, address and stamp cards,
  pack, etc.

• Assign dates, times and chores for each member of the family.

• Post the chart in a visible location, and consider an awards system for kids who complete all their chores and give yourself one too!

Unplug
Unplug from your TV shows (record them if you want to ‘miss’ anything), your computer, games and even your phones for periods of time so you can accomplish the chores you want and need to do to prepare. Reality shows are not that important, nor are soap operas, nor are games. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and other social media – log off for a few days. Your family and your stress levels are more important.

Plan While You Commute
If you commute you can do a lot of your holiday planning while someone else deals with the traffic. Create a holiday notebook and create checklists of items you and others you need to help you do. These plans can then be put onto your chore board.

De-Stress
Take some time to be by yourself, where ever you can find it if only for 5 minutes. Talk a walk, bike, longer shower, or a soak. Getting in touch with your self and nature will revitalize you and give you the energy you’ll need into next year!