Holiday Countdown Series Recap {Week Eight}

Happy Friday! It’s less than 2 weeks to Christmas and I have to say I’m feeling more prepared this year than ever. My husband really jumped on board with the gift shopping this year and has taken an entire month off from traveling for work, which has been so nice. This week I managed to get some baking done and I also finished off some handmade gift tags and other wrapping supplies I’ll be sharing within the next week or so. Now I just need to wrap those gifts!

As mentioned on Facebook, I was asked by SavvyMom to contribute my jingle bell ornaments to their project gallery. These easy DIY ornaments have become very popular, and I couldn’t be happier! As promised, the Christmas Decorating Ideas & Projects book I created these ornaments for will be available for you to download for free on Monday (A big thanks to Shannon of AKA Design for putting it together!).

If you’ve missed any weeks along the way, be sure to catch up on the full 2012 Holiday Countdown Series.

This Week’s Holiday Countdown Homework

Create a Tablescape.

Even if you’re not hosting Christmas, there’s something to be said about decorating your table. You can keep it simple or make it as opulent as you like. My table is the focal point when you’re looking from the front entrance, so it’s necessary for it to look good. I usually include a centerpiece, table runner and candles.

It’s Overflowing

Amanda Carol at Home

Sitting in a Tree Events

Get ready for overnight guests.

If you’re hosting Christmas this year or happen to be entertaining overnight guests this season, I recommend you prepare for it now.

Wrap gifts.

Remember the station I recommended you set up last week, well it’s time to put it to use. If you wrap your gifts early, you’ll know if there are any gifts or add-ons you still need to purchase. My son is an only child, but I’ve heard stories from moms who were wrapping gifts for their kids and realized they over-bought for one. As a result, they either needed to return items or do some more shopping for the other(s). Don’t let this happen on December 23!

Within the next week, I’ll be posting fabulous gift-wrapping ideas. Here are a few others:

{via Grey Likes Weddings}

{via Carolyn’s Homework}

A big thank you to everyone who has been following this series, as well as those who have left wonderful comments. I’m having a blast putting it together and it’s definitely keeping me on my toes! I’d love for you to share what you’ve been doing to prepare for Christmas. Remember I’m hosting a Holiday Countdown Link Party next week. Come back and share any of your holiday posts!

P.S. You can still link up your handmade gifts and holiday recipes until Christmas Day.

Enjoy your weekend!