Christmas can be a stressful time for anyone. Large families, finding out who is hosting, picking out the right gifts… It’s not simple. There’s no way to be 100 percent sure that the Christmas holiday will go perfectly, but this list will help make sure things will go better than expected.

Step 1: Out with the old, in with the new!

            If you haven’t gotten rid of short-sleeved shirts and opened-toed shoes, now is way past time. Bundle up with blankets, sweatshirts, long-sleeves, thick pants and scarves.

Step 2: Check check check!

When it starts getting cold outside, cats start hiding under your tires to find warmth. Before you start to drive, check under the tires. Also, keep your water running just a bit so you can avoid frozen pipes.

Step 3: Make a list, and gather lists of your own.

            Starting as soon as possible, start taking down the names of things that you would be grateful for, and pay more attention to when a friend or loved-one shows interest in something. This way, when people start asking for your list, you’ll have something to give them, and when it’s time to buy for others, you’ll have an idea of what to purchase.

 Step 4: Make a master gift list!

            Once you’ve found out what people want, make a list of everything. In a neat notebook, take down names, sizes and what each person wants. It will be easy to mark things off and make sure everyone gets a present.

 Step 5: Go Shopping.

Now’s the time to purchase those gifts that you’ve been making lists for. For every gift you buy, check off that it’s been purchased so you don’t accidentally buy more of one gift.

 Step 6: Wrap gifts as you buy them.

For each gift that you buy, wrap as you go. This makes it a more simple process, and you won’t have to worry about keeping the presents hidden.

 Step 7: Show your true Christmas spirit!

            Hang up lights, put up the tree, hang the wreath. Christmas is just around the corner!

 Step 8: Send out the Christmas Cards.

            Family Christmas cards are one of the most memorable parts of the holiday season. Talk to your family and decide on the setting and outfits to make sure everyone looks similar for the picture. After you get pictures taken and you’ve decided on a certain photograph, get a card made and send them out to family and friends!

Step 9: Charge electronics.

            About a day before the actual day of Christmas, make sure all of the cameras and video cameras are charged. This way, you can make memories through photographs.

 Step 10: Finish all last minute wrapping.

            If by any chance there are some gifts you didn’t get around to wrapping (and there will be), get them wrapped!

 Step 11: Sit back and relax.

            You did it! Santa’s coming!