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While I know most people are ready to just be done with Christmas by the time it’s over, now is a great time to take a few minutes and record all of your ideas that you want to incorporate into next year’s celebration.

Maybe you heard of a fun family tradition or a delicious recipe. Maybe you saw a craft that you want to do or a gift you want to make for someone. Whatever it is, now is the time to write it down (and include links if applicable) so that you don’t forget before next year.

For example, I want to do a Jesse Tree with my girls next Christmas, using these adorable handmade felt ornaments. I also saw this beautiful felt advent calendar that would be perfect for holding the ornaments as we count down the days until Christmas. I simply didn’t have time to do these projects this past year, so I’ve added them to my list so that I’ll remember to start on them early this year.

There are a few different ways to organize your Christmas ideas:

::Use a “Christmas notebook” such as a three-ring binder

::Create a section in Microsoft OneNote

::Use a folder in your Favorites to save links you come across

::Create a Word document

::Write down your ideas and traditions and pack them in the box with the preceeding holiday’s decorations (i.e., Halloween, Thanksgiving or fall decorations) so that you’re reminded ahead of time (Thanks, Tara!)

Whichever way you choose to do it, I encourage you to write down your family’s traditions, make notes about what worked and what didn’t work this year, record gift ideas, and keep track of ideas you come across that you might want to incorporate next year. Planning ahead can keep it from sneaking up on you and help make it a simpler and more enjoyable holiday for everyone!