Taking action

• Begin making preparations for Christmas in July when things are quieter.

• Choose a theme for your Christmas to simplify and coordinate Christmas festivities.

• In the months before Christmas (July to October) begin making some simple gifts for friends and family.

• Create a 10-week Christmas-preparation plan to spread the workload.

• To make catering easier, make a detailed Christmas Day menu plan.

• From the menu plan create a Christmas cooking schedule to highlight what you can do in advance.

• Delegate tasks to others to lighten your workload.

• Remember to get some rest and be flexible so everyone can enjoy the day — including you!