Photo: from open sources
Make a cup of hot tea or fragrant cocoa and make a list of tasks that you definitely need to get done before the new year.
There is very little left until the new year – just over three weeks. And usually in the last days of the year we are busy preparing for the holiday and completing the most important tasks, writes Wisebread.
Make a to-do list
Make a cup of hot tea or fragrant cocoa and make a list of tasks that you need to get done before the new year. Perhaps you need to visit your old teacher or pick up books from the library. Think about what exactly you would like to do and determine on the calendar the days on which you can plan important tasks and visits. This will make it easier for you to do everything without haste and chaos.
Do some spring cleaning
Don’t leave cleaning your home until the last few days before the holidays. Disassemble the cabinets and drawers, the kitchen – this coming weekend. Do one full-scale cleaning a couple of weeks before the holidays, so you only need to vacuum and dust the day before.
Focus on completing important projects
Plan your work so that you have time to complete all important projects before the end of the year, turn in all the “tails” and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment on the eve of the holidays. Pay off all debts, return books to the library.
Create a menu
Think about the menu for the holidays in advance so you don’t have to worry about it at the last moment. Check your pantry supplies and make a list of regular groceries so you don’t have to go shopping on the eve of the holidays.
Start shopping for groceries
Identify what you can buy in advance and start shopping for the holiday little by little. This will save you from standing in lines and possibly save you money – on the eve of the holidays, everything goes up in price.
Buy gifts
Think in advance about what and to whom of your family members and friends you are going to give. Place your orders in online stores in advance so that your goods arrive on time. Take the time to carefully pack everything and put it away until the holidays.
Decorate your home
Hang some garlands, wreaths, toys. If you have an artificial Christmas tree, then you can already install and decorate it. If it’s alive, prepare the place where you want to put the tree. Remove the toys from the mezzanine and shake off any dust.
Write letters
Write letters, sign postcards to your loved ones who are far away. Perhaps the New Year is a great opportunity to reconnect with someone or make peace.
Organize a party
Have a little pre-holiday pajama party at home. This is an excellent occasion to remember the moments of the passing year, say goodbye to what was done or not done and prepare completely refreshed for the New Year.
Make a plan for 2024
Think through each month of the next year and make a plan – when you will rest, how you will celebrate your birthday or other holidays. Set goals you want to achieve. Write down your wish list. You can create a vision board.
Spend one day alone with yourself
This day will help you collect your thoughts and understand your own desires and aspirations. And also – to relax and gain strength before the holidays.
Find a recipe you want to try
The holidays are a great time to try out a new recipe and cook something unusual. Bake cookies with the kids, use a new cookbook, or think about what kind of dish you would like to see on the holiday table.
Arrange a winter photo shoot
Create new memories in the form of photos – take pictures in fluffy snowdrifts, against the backdrop of a decorated Christmas tree, next to your loved ones at a pajama party. And of course – on Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Plan your party
Whether you celebrate with family or invite friends, you need a plan. You may want to dance, which means you will need music recordings. Or you will play board games – prepare some new games or old ones. Or you want to organize a movie marathon – take care of your film library.
Prepare your clothes
Think about your outfit for holiday parties in advance and prepare your entire look – from shoes to hairpins and jewelry. Otherwise, you will throw everything out of the closet at the last moment.
Visit elderly relatives
A few days before the holidays, be sure to visit close relatives who are already many years old. Your parents or aunts will appreciate a small gift, some goodies and your attention.
