News flash, the holidays are upon us. However, instead of the normal panic reaction, wouldn’t you like to relax and enjoy them for a change? Deciding early on what you are doing this year will be your guide to organizing and inner peace. Will you be traveling, entertaining or having company? Here are some tips to keep you happy and your home organized through this busy season:
If you are staying home this year the first thing to do is look at the rooms that will be the focal points when you have people over; whether it’s for entertaining or guests staying with you. Usually, these are the kitchen, living room/family room and dining room.
• First, de-clutter each room one at a time. Clear the floor, chairs, couches, tables and shelves. This is the perfect time to donate those things you don’t need.
• Second clean these areas. Assign each member of the family a cleaning task to be completed in each room. Clean all surfaces, starting high (with counters and shelves) and working your way down. Complete one whole room before moving to the next. Getting the whole family involved will make the process go faster so you can all start enjoying the holidays sooner.
• Third, organize main rooms. Analyze each of the main rooms and decide if you need to rearrange the furniture to accommodate your holiday activities. Create a holiday gift wrap area. Set up an area to display your holiday cards, get out the holiday music and movies, you can arrange them by the stereo and DVD player. Gather all your holiday decorations together and take stock. Be ruthless in deciding what you really love and will use this year. Start a donate box for those items you no longer want or use.
• Fourth, organize children’s rooms. More than likely there will be an abundance of new items coming in to each room. Now is the time to de-clutter these rooms. Go through the toy boxes, closets and dresser drawers. Do this along with your child if they are five years or older. Have a large donation box and get rid of all the clothes that don’t fit and your kids don’t wear. Sort through all the toys and books and send the excess to the donation box. Tell your children this is the time of the year to share the things they aren’t using any more with others.
Now your home is organized and you’re ready to spend time with family and friends. Don’t overbook yourself. Be mindful of the number of activities you schedule and be sure to build in time for your family to share in the true meaning of the season.
If you have questions for “The Mess Doctor” or if you need professional assistance to get organized, contact Barbara Ricketts at MessDoctor@Mac.com or call 661-263-0124.