Where has 2013 gone? We’re barely in the double digits of weeks
left before the clock strikes 2014. And
with just under two weeks left before we hit November, there is a lot that can
be done now to make that transition feel all the more productive.
If you will be passing out candy from
your home on the 31st, there is still time to order a sweet treat compliment to
go with those bite sized morsels of sugary goodness. I just received my package of Christian themed
bracelets that will go out to trick-or-treaters. If there is a good cause you support or uplifting
message you would like to share with your community, be thinking now about how
you could incorporate that, like giving out stickers, bookmarks, or other small
items area kids would enjoy.
If you are planning to attend any
seasonal events, look into your ticket options now. Check out local venues that host
entertainment opportunities like plays, sports, concerts, and exhibitions
across the Valley. You might be
surprised at the fun and creative options you can discover locally. On November the 7th, I know I will
be at the Harlingen Cultural Arts Center at Dining by Design, which supports
the American Cancer Society, for a stunning exhibition of beautiful
tablescapes.
Now is also a good time to make some
decisions about a family Christmas card if you haven’t already. If you’ll be stamping some holiday cheer to
share, be perusing your digital photo files or setting up a shoot with a
trusted camera handler to get your best angle in print. There is a vast array of card ideas out
there, including fill-in-your-picture-and-names templates with online design
and print companies that will send a stylish finished product right to your
door. Don’t rush the job at the last holiday
minute; leave yourself plenty of time to stuff, seal, stamp, and address.
What are the plans for Thanksgiving
and Christmas this year? If your family
operates on a rotational basis between home and in-laws, check in with your
feasting table companions to get the scoop or make sure everyone is on board
with the plan already in place. You
could incorporate an easy online invitation like an Evite®, which allows people
to RSVP electronically so you can gather a good headcount. If you’re feeling crafty, you would have
ample time to work on place cards for your (or your mom’s) table setting, or
make some sprucing changes to the guest space, like new sheets or a festive
hand towel set, if you will be hosting company.
There’s no time like the present to
work on Christmas presents. If you’re
like me, a week-of shopping trip does not put you in the Christmas spirit. They say it’s the thought that counts, and
putting some advanced thought into special gifts is a good way to go. Take advantage of online deals and free
shipping offers to spread your holiday expenses over a few billing cycles. Stock up on wrapping paper and accessories
and prep your Santa’s workshop space.
You may prefer wrapping a gift here and there to a gift wrap marathon in
December.
Utilize the time you have left before
the holiday rush to plan, prepare, shop, and save to make sure you can enjoy a
truly sweet November.
DesignInMind column; appeared in the Valley Morning Star October 20th.
