Christmas is over… now what? Things to do the days after
1. Wrap up left overs: Food storage bags, particularly of the freezer-proof variety, can prove invaluable. Portion out remaining holiday treats into bags and mark the contents on them and then pop into the freezer. This is more practical than trying to consume all of the left overs before they spoil, and much more figure-friendly as well.
2. Make a greeting card list: There are likely the standard people with whom you correspond, but do you find that each year a certain individual sends you a greeting to which you forget to reciprocate? While all of your holiday cards are hanging in full view, make a list of the people who sent you cards. Keep the list handy because you’ll soon be storing it away.
3. Shop the sales: Some people just love the bargains that post-Christmas has to offer and are not bothered by the long lines at area stores. If you are still in the shopping spirit, by all means go out and spend your holiday loot. You can also log onto your favorite online retailers and check the sales there.
4. Stock up for next year: If the malls aren’t your thing right now, consider stopping by a pharmacy, card shop or discount center that has slashed prices on holiday merchandise. You can purchase new lights, wrapping paper, decorations and much more usually at a deep discount. While you’re at it, buy your greeting cards now. When you get home, wrap them up with the list you made and store away in your Christmas bins.
5. Start thinking of resolutions: New Year’s Eve is only a week away. Use your down time to think up resolutions that stray from the standards of losing weight or quitting smoking (although those are very valid resolutions). Some ideas include volunteer work, spending more time with the kids or taking up a relaxing hobby.
6. Start a family tradition: Chances are the kids and you have off from school and work. Make the most of this rare time together to do something fun. Take in a movie, visit a zoo or indoor aquarium or hit the hills with a sled.
7. Pack up: While it may be too early for some to let go of their holiday decorations, others are busy and use the time to pack up the Christmas clutter. Stock up on some large plastic bins and resolve to clearly label everything as you put it away. This will make it much easier come next year.
8. Put materials to good use: Have empty wrapping paper tubes lying around? Wrap Christmas lights around them and secure each end with tape. Carefully pack them away so the lights won’t be tangled for next use. Used wrapping paper that is not in good condition for re-wrapping gifts can serve as packing material between delicate ornaments. Paper that doesn’t have a holiday theme can be set aside for wrapping gifts for other occasions.
9. Shop for big-ticket items: Now is a good time to look for a car or that big electronic item. Think ahead to your Super Bowl party and splurge on the flat-panel television.
10. Kick back and relax: Sometimes the best thing to do is nothing at all. Relish the joy of another successful holiday gone by.