TIME HACKS + MONEY MATTERS + SANITY SAVER

It’s never too soon to be thinking about and preparing for the silly season. Christmas has a habit of creeping up on me, so this year, I’m determined to be better prepared.

I’m one for making lists because I don’t trust my memory and have far too many things going on to keep thoughts organised without one. These days I organise everything in Trello. Here’s a sneak peek at my current Family Board.

Yes, I’m a bit of a geek when it comes to organising and using lists 😊

Here is a quick brain dump of things I’m doing to make it through Q4 without losing it.

NB: This list is great for people like me who really don’t like shopping centres – especially during peak times.

Quick Tips to a hassle-free festive season

1. Get organised for Christmas early
   Set yourself a date that you’d like all Christmas shopping done and dusted by and aim for it girlfriend! Go on… Take the challenge.
   
2. Make a Gift List for each person and check it off
   It may sound anal, but his is a great way to keep things fair (which is very important in our household), and you don’t end up spending excessive time wandering around the shopping mall trying to remember what you’ve got and what you still need to get.
   
3. Buy presents in advance on special, preferrably online
   The best way to save money and your sanity is to take advantage of special offers during November and early December. Also this year will be a little different to others… you’ve heard it in the media – delivery times are extended and stock levels are limited so you’ll need to order early to get what you want, when you want it. #notetoself
   
   Speaking of which, Christmas delivery cut off physical products from the ‘Tude Shop is Friday 3rd December
   
4. Stash your purchases in one safe place
   That’s for people like me who have been known to forget where I’ve stored things and find them after the occassion!
   
5. Prepare a menu for the Christmas festivities
   As per points 2 + 4 above, start purchasing bits and pieces in advance so can take advantage of specials and you don’t end up with a massive grocery bill right on Christmas.

Two Quick Tips for handling the holidays

1. Start collecting ideas and items for school holiday activities now – you’ll thank yourself later.
   Check out the Fun Stuff category for some holiday activity ideas.
   
2. Make sure you’ve got play date contacts before the end of term
   For those who don’t get the opportunity to meet the Little Peeps friends parents, make sure you start gathering contact details and doing some play dates now, so your Little Peeps have a number of friends you can reach out to over the extended holiday period. #LearnFromMyMistakes

That’s all I’ve got time to add now. Subscribe to our ‘Tude Taps and follow us on social for more ideas leading up to Christmas and during the holiday season.

SOME RESOURCES YOU MAY FIND HELPFUL

Check out the Yule Tide range in the ‘Tude Shop

Time Hacks Blogs

Money Matters Blogs