Check out my tip for grocery lists (#85) in the new book, 105 Tips To Make a Mom's Life Easier by Stephanie Vozza.

Read online our neat ideas for what to do with kids' artwork in the October edition of the Boston Parents Paper. Check out page 24 in the "Archives - October" edition in the easy-to-read digital version.

This can be such a busy time of year for many families. Here are a few tips to help you get ready, and enjoy the season!

• Make a list, and check it twice! 'Tis the season to start a gift list, shopping list, AND a list of fun things you want to do this holiday season.
• Take your list of fun things to do, get your family calendar (paper or electronic) and SCHEDULE some activities in right now. 
• Are your gift wrapping supplies stashed in random closets and drawers throughout your house? Set up a gift wrapping center so you can easily find what you need, and avoid those last-minute trips to the store for more tape. Read more in my Holiday Organizing article here.
• Do you bake or make food gifts for the holidays? Entertain more? It's a good time for a quick re-organization of your pantry and fridge. Read how to tackle each space in just 30 minutes on our Blog. 
• Consider year-end charitable donations. Spend one hour, just one hour, decluttering your basement, attic or a closet. You don't have to do the whole space in an hour - just see what is on top that you know you don't need. Then call a charity that picks up, like the Vietnam Veterans of America, Salvation Army, or Big Brother/Big Sister.