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Chaos Eradicated! Aggravation Abolished! Overwhelm Obliterated!
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Greetings!
 The season is in full swing - I love this time of year! I know not everybody does, it can be extremely stressful, because you always feel about three steps behind - at least I do. The solution? Try not to focus on what you haven't done, just focus on your list, and on what you're doing this minute. You also have to remember why you have the list in the first place - this is 100% about the other people in your life. The stress of the holidays is all about "me" : "I" won't have everything together, "I" will forget something or somebody, "I" will let somebody down. If we get out of our own heads, and adopt giving as a state of mind, it no longer matters if every detail is perfect. You will be giving the best gift of all - your whole self.
And go easy on those New Year's resolutions! Read on
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Holiday Tip
When you or a family member get new electronics as gifts, use a baggie for the manual and accessories, then make labels for accessories that aren't bagged like chargers. Almost every one of my clients has had boxes or drawers full of unknown chargers, remotes, cords, etc.. Tag them right out of the box instead.
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News:
- Big news, hot off the presses! I have been invited to co-author a chapter in an organizing book that will be out next Fall. I just accepted and will be writing during January, stay posted for more information.
- Besides the holidays, December is also Universal Human Rights Month. You probably know someone who would appreciate a gift of a donation in their name to Amnesty International, Oxfam, Human Rights Watch, Madre (women's rights), or some other organization that benefits those less fortunate than we are.
- December 31st is the last day to make item tax deductible donations for 2009, please remember that the drop off locations for various organizations get overwhelmed at this time, so please don't wait until the last minute. Tracking and valuing your deductions is key, I use itsdeductible.com. It is a product made to work with TurboTax, so if you use that to do your taxes it will import your deductions. You can also print them out for your tax preparer. Values are also available from The Salvation Army website.
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Holiday Tip #2
Got a full house? If you're wondering where everyone will sleep, here are two ideas for temporary beds:
1. air mattresses - not just for camping any more! My queen-size folds up and is easily stored the other 363 days of the year (and spend the extra few $$ for a small electric air pump!) Here is one site, google for more; and 2. if a twin bed has a headboard and footboard, there is probably enough clearance to store an old mattress underneath, easily pulled out for another guest. Keep it covered when not in use so it doesn't get dusty.
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When they're not looking . . .
Go through their toys and books... get rid of the ones they don't play with. Good toys and books can be donated, and just toss anything you wouldn't feel good about giving to another parent. Donations must be made in the tax year you are claiming, so don't wait.
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Trim your trimmings!
Try this to make space in the attic: for every new ornament you buy or receive, throw out two you don't use. This can be done several years running until you have pared down.
When you are putting away your ornanments after the holidays make sure they are stored properly to prevent damage. There are wonderful storage options available at Bed, Bath and Beyond, Target, Frontgate, Grandin Road and on the web- google Christmas storage.
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(cont'd from above - Easy on the Resolutions!)
It's not a good idea to try and change your whole life all at once any other month of the year, and January is no different. If you want to mark the New Year as the time to make changes, make a long-term plan, broken down into manageable steps. Tackle the first goal, and forget about the rest until you are satisfied with the changes you have made. My own New Year's resolution? To help as many people as I can move towards more integrated and more peaceful lives. Thanks to all of you who have allowed me to be a part of your personal journeys.
Peace and joy to us all into the New Year,
Anna Sicalides
The Organizing Consultant LLC Back to Top
Please forward this newsletter to anyone you know who may appreciate it.
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