ORGANIZING
Tips for
Tuesday
When it comes to organizing, there are some things that I'd just rather avoid. Like that large stack of boxes and containers looming under my basement steps...
YIKES!!!
If you're like me, the only time you come into contact with your Christmas decorations is when it's time to put them up or take them down. Why not make things easier on yourself next year by paring down your holiday paraphernalia while you're into it anyway?
If you're like me, the only time you come into contact with your Christmas decorations is when it's time to put them up or take them down. Why not make things easier on yourself next year by paring down your holiday paraphernalia while you're into it anyway?
This is the perfect season to donate those unwanted Christmas items- while there are people out there looking for them.
Why not take a look into each box and take note of the things you're not putting out this year. Ask yourself these questions:
Does it have sentimental value?
Is it a family heirloom?
Do I like it?
When was the last time I used it?
Does it still serve its original purpose?
Do I have any idea where it came from or why I have it?
Is it still in its original packaging?
I have some ornaments that my children made back in elementary school, and some that belonged to my husband's family when he was growing up. For me, those are keepers.
I also have some decorations that I'm sure I got a good deal on at an after Christmas sale, but I've never used them. Those need to go.
Then there's the artificial Christmas trees. Yes trees - plural. We have two bay windows at the front of our house and at some point in time (probably when I didn't have anything better to do) I set up a tree in each. Now I hardly have the time or inclination to put one up, but I'm not ready to get rid of one just yet either. One tree is smaller - and therefore quicker to decorate - while the larger one has been in my family since I was in the 5th grade and is still a very nice tree. I may need to think on this one for a while, and that's okay.
It's also okay to take a pass on decorating. It's not mandatory - it should be something you enjoy. I didn't have a tree up for several years (my kids were grown, which made it easier) because of mission trips just before and just after Christmas.
For you parents with an artificial tree, here's a great hiding place for your children's gifts! Put them in the empty Christmas tree box or in the tubs that held your other decorations. Kids never think to look in there because they saw that they were empty when you put the boxes away.
Happy decorating (or not!)
Lisa
