Overwhelmed? Try this Simple Fix RIGHT NOW! Stress-free Christmas planning

[@DianeinDenmark]

🎄😊 OK, be honest with me...how are you feeling about Christmas this year? Have you been following along with my planning? Feeling good or lost? It's not too late, I'm here for you! Download my weekly checklist and follow our simple 6-week series to stay on track! dianedenmark.com ⭐⭐⭐

[@lintb6030]

And a big hug for you❤, for when you're making the video about your mum. ❤

[@sarahdebeer4302]

I'm really looking forward to Christmas this year. I'm actively trying to do a smaller celebration, I already feel happier and am getting more done 🎉❤😊

[@Dee-rt8nd]

Sending you a big hug❤

[@rosealeehixon963]

I'm looking forward to it! I've purchased some new garland for my sitting room, and am donating the old (in great shape) garland as I wanted to switch up the color palette from bright color-pop to green/gold/white. The day after Thanksgiving I'll begin spending a little time each day placing decorations in my sitting room and bedroom. My gifts are purchased, ready to wrap this week. Cards addressed and ready to be written a few a day...much smaller number. For many years I mailed 100+; now I send about twenty. Happy Monday!

[@ros8986]

I'm in the US. I have done my christmas shopping - 12 pairs of insulated snowpants and 7 warm jackets delivered to a large homeless shelter (they feed and sleep about 180 people each day).

[@ruthw3244]

Hi . If your mom left brooches that are not your style tie pretty ribbon on them and put on your tree or maybe your kids would like them for their own trees. We did that with my moms and it’s a nice remembrance. Cheers

[@DianaH-gq4kw]

@ruthw3244 Thank you! I love this idea.

[@tammyf8921]

I did this with my grandpa’s ties!

[@penelopesheehan5927]

I’m looking forward to your video about your mum…in the photos you show of her, her face just glows with an inner light. Even though she is physically absent, her light shines on and on, and you are so kind to share her with us.

[@DianeinDenmark]

Aww, thanks, Penelope - my Mum was a very special lady!

[@vanessaandreatta9098]

Yep

[@michellegiblin6812]

Could you make a video on jewelry rest in peace 🕊️ to your mom 💞

[@suehowe5201]

Dear Diane, thank you for being you! ❤

[@alisongregson4740]

I am looking forward to your video about your mum. I lost my mum in January of 2023 and my dad on Saturday evening of this past weekend. I am reeling a bit. Losing your parents is incredibly hard no matter how old you are.

[@DianeinDenmark]

I'm so very sorry to hear that, Alison - sending you a big hug!

[@tammyf8921]

So sorry for your loss. May your loving memories comfort you.

[@jrcs1347]

I'm sorry for your loss Alison, I lost my mum 2 months ago and dad 10 years sending hugs xx

[@annettemurielle]

Years ago, I realized I needed to switch up the zone schedule to work for my home. The two smallest zones are my entry hallway and my bathroom, so I moved them to the first and last week, respectively, because often the beginning and end of the month are short weeks. Now the larger areas of my home are bookended by the smallest and I have plenty of time to do each zone without rushing. You suggested this in one of your videos, Diane, and it works for me. Thank you!

[@PamelaFoster-g7i]

Always feel better when I watch your videos ❤Thanks for all the love, kindness and care that you put into your work.

[@jenforbes661]

You are so right about social connections! As a widow, it is easy to feel alone in the world. Like you I connect with friends in joint physical activities such as yoga, aquafit and cycling. This year so far I am enjoying Christmas prep. at a relaxed pace with your encouraging videos.

[@DianeinDenmark]

That's brilliant, Jen - sounds like you are very active!

[@carolmatthews7918]

So lovely to see you again, and a BIG hug to you too, Diane ❤

[@denisearonow4921]

Social connections and outdoor time . ❤

[@DianeinDenmark]

Yes, so important, Denise! 👋🏼😍

[@tammyb6497]

Today is my mom’s 81st birthday so we’re taking her out for dinner. I don’t own any dress clothes so I don’t have to worry about that task. My husband is going to a work Christmas function this week, in another city, and I don’t believe that significant others were invited. Honestly, I struggle to find the joy in Christmas now. Christmas and Black Friday tv commercials started in October and everything is about buy, buy, buy and spend, spend, spend. I do enjoy sending cards and hope that our current postal strike will not be long lived so I can get them in the mail on time. 🇨🇦

[@jenforbes661]

Turn off your TV and phone and try a walk in nature.......

[@roseyriver3921]

You are wholly responsible for my new hobby of checking the date that hot water bottles are made! Fascinating!! Who knew???!!!

[@grumpy_poo]

🤣😂 tough job... somebody has to do it.

[@richardmcgreal8825]

I have shared your videos with my 32 year daughter I explained to her cleaning isn't an all day process but needs to done everyday. I told her about Christmas mice in the wall and she loves that idea. I love the Christmas videos. So warm and festive. I have been working in my basement preparing my tree for the front porch and decluttering as I go along. Joan

[@jwuertz7101]

I did need that hug today! ❤ I sorted through my cards and have just enough to send. Will make slow and steady progress to get most ready by Nov 30th!

[@ingmariohman8242]

All my Christmas gifts are bought and wrapped! I usually do them in bulk! This year I bought a cosmetics and skin care advent calender, by Caia. First time ever. I wanted to renew my own supply. Apart from that, 11 persons get a gift from that calender. For 6 men and teenage boys, I bought the Happy Socks advent calender. On Christmas eve, they will take turns pulling numbers from a bag. 4 numbers per person. And then they will open those on the calender. Normally guys need fresh socks from time to time!

[@reginaquinones4190]

Great idea!

[@WestCountyGirl]

I love your photos of you dearly departed mum with her happy smile, thank you for sharing her with us. I will be putting my holiday outfits together for self care because I took your advice and planned some fun holiday activites, yay! And I'll take care of the hot spot on my bedroom dresser this week. I so appreciate all you bring to my life with your videos, Daine, thank you!

[@kirstydavidson8431]

Look forward to seeing the video of your Mum. It’s 7 yrs on Thursday since my Mum passed. Her birthday is the 11th December so my kids and I go to the Botanical Gardens Illuminated Trail in Edinburgh every year on her birthday, a new tradition 💜 This year my kids will be getting gifts of experiences. Sending love and hugs xx

[@Marsolan]

I am watching all your planning videos and taking notes. But I am hosting thanksgiving first so I will dive in into your Christmas prep on dec1st. Easy for my mind. But I did organize all the wrapping paper and the gift bags in one area and I have started on the Christmas list. I am also keeping up with power tasks and self-care❤❤❤ I cannot tell you how helpful and cheerful this is!!

[@DianeinDenmark]

Yay, so glad to hear it, Marsolan!

[@bw07_r]

Preparing for Christmas still feels early to me but I suppose you’re right and I should get moving. Will buy cards this week.

[@janeb3024]

Postal strike here in 🇨🇦 so cards are on hold. It may be emails or phone calls this year.☹️

[@Cindys-bc1dp]

Thank you, Diane, for the hug and the cheer. Sending a 🤗 to you. I am happy for you that you will have your brother’s family visiting this Christmas. Good to be together after losing your mum. We recently heard from one of our daughters that she and her hubby will be able to visit us. Unexpected joy! ❤

[@catrinholmes7026]

Did a lovely declutter in my bedroom, emptied half the blanket box. So proud 😊 thanks for the encouragement ❤

[@DianeinDenmark]

Great job, Catrin!

[@cleitatreestrong8397]

I have been following the FlyLady system for years now but still struggle with the zone cleaning. Nevertheless, I cleaned nearly all of the windows in the house during the last week. Feels like a relief, and my son and I did draw some Christmassy stuff with chalk pencils. So nice! 😊❤

[@zaramasterton2684]

Thank you Diane for a lovely, interesting video.

[@DianeinDenmark]

Aww, thank you, Zara!

[@suzanne-moore]

Rah rah rah 🎉 wrapping this week is my goal. Social connections is one thing I tend to let fall aside during the holiday season but I am getting better at keeping them going thanks to you ❤

[@DianeinDenmark]

Friends are a real life raft for us, aren't they, S? Always worth the effort to make time for them!

[@suzanne-moore]

@ very true 🥰

[@mariehunter]

So appreciate you Diane! You are sunshine in a cold and cloudy Kansas day.

[@ediezambrano2793]

I love this idea of getting festive outfits ready! I love your Mom’s brooches too!

[@susanrikimaru6630]

Thank you for the Monday motivation! 🎉🎉🎉

[@DianeinDenmark]

You are so welcome, Susan - thank you for taking the time to comment!

[@CindyWisconsinGirl-l6h]

Hi Diane! My self care this week was a 1.5 hour walk with my brother, whom I haven’t seen in a year & a half. Chilly here - 50F and breezy, but warmer than it will be come December! So good to experience the fresh air and sunshine, plus the companionship. Back to focusing on the house tomorrow!

[@janethassing2523]

Have cleaned my house today so I will be ready to leave the US to visit Scotland! Have finished packing and cant wait to land in Scotland on Wednesday morning!

[@judyhibel2894]

So jealous of you! Scotland is on my bucket list ❤

[@14MellyJo]

I remembered your tip from last year Diane - wrap the presents as they arrive into the house. That made such a difference so I’m doing it again. My self care task is to paint my nails 💅 and wear my festive cosy pjs. Thank you Diane 😊

[@MichelleJones-p4e]

Thanks so much for this series. I do feel very overwhelmed with life in general, and this is helping me by just doing a little at a time. So thankful for your encouragement!! ❤️🌹

[@susanleadbetter8639]

Thank you for all the reminders. Got the main family presents, not wrapped yet, waiting for my son to get Christmas boxes from the loft. It's a bit of a lul time as I can't always get in the mood for Christmas like I used to since my hubby died 3yrs ago, very suddenly and unexpected. I do make an effort though for my son and his family. You're helping with that too, so thank you for lifting my spirits. 🎉🎉🎉

[@beverlymartin1414]

Thank you just got my hug and passed it along to my neighbor who needed one too. I have never heard of your husbands fav ? Will check him out. Do not faint but I never knew Black Friday was wotld wide❤❤❤❤❤Our holidays gifts are travel. We will be on a cruise for 14 days starting soon. When you have no children and are older cruising on holidays is very festive and popular. Easy too , with all tbe cruise ports in Florida. ❤❤❤

[@DianeinDenmark]

It's funny about Black Friday because, of course, here in Europe we don't have Thanksgiving...but it's an extra way for the stores to sell stuff ahead of Christmas! LOL!

[@lindaplunkett1864]

I lost my mother last spring so I understand where you are in your journey after losing a mom🥲. I have been declutterring like crazy; we don’t need all of the items that we have collected over the years. I take many loads every week to my local charity shop and I feel so good knowing that the charity will benefit from my declutterring as much as I will benefit from my declutterring😀. Thank you for your excellent content. I have been watching you for quite a while but this is my first time commenting; yeah rah rah😀😀😀

[@debraarmstrong298]

Thanks again for an inspiring video. I went away for the weekend with my bestie and bought several gifts. Also bought some sparkly earrings.

[@RainShineFilms]

After watching your videos for years, I’m ready to try the Fly Lady schedule with more structure a la you! I’m going to start this week and continue into 2025. I celebrate Winter with many holidays and some laissez faire Christmas traditions. I need routines in my life and am creating new ones in this chapter. Thank you for all that you give us! 🎉

[@trishtraynor]

Thanks for the hug. 💖

[@reginaquinones4190]

Thanks for getting us ready for the holidays and taking care of ourselves while doing it !

[@ashandu]

Happy Monday Diane! I love the reminders and the motivation. ❤

[@AnitaterHorst]

Thnx for all your support❤

[@moyrainbow5674]

I'm so excited I've got 5 days away with my dear old Mam (nearly 85) in Copenhagen in December, got to plan my outfits for the festivities and all our activities! 🌲♥️🌲

[@grumpy_poo]

Sadly each year that passes the Christmas card list shrinks significantly... and so do the numbers of people close to me so Christmas is bitter sweet. Thinking of you and yours, first Christmas since losing your mum. I still have a few decs up but don't do the Christmas dinner thing. My immediate family and grand kids live too far away..... so it will be cosying up with a zoom call and a large Baileys.

[@missystarlight5]

I’m already done wrapping gifts and writing cards. Started 5 weeks ago and it’s so liberating that all those things are done and only waiting for posting or giving. Hope you’ll have a nice week! Tomorrow i’m going to dive into my closet to look after festive clothing for me and the kids

[@gigib4076]

Diane you are such an inspiration! Your videos truly make me smile every time I watch them!!

[@cerecockrell7591]

Thanks for the reminder.. gifts in house but need to get to wrapping them. bedroom could use a little pupa. getting out the holiday jewelry. Your series is really helping me stay on track! See you next time!

[@victoriarussell9527]

We have bought my daughter Nick Cave goodies too. She went to see him at Leeds Arena in the UK . She is 16 yrs and was blown away with his concert and lyrics!!. I hope your husband enjoys his mug. Thank you for your uplifting video Diane xx

[@jinxie228]

We don't really buy gifts either. But we love spending time with each other. I am working on sending out cards now.

[@DianaH-gq4kw]

Hugs to you, Diane. Thank you for this video. I've got most of my shopping done. For each Christmas since he died I have a different watercolor painting printed/copied that my DD husband painted. I give those to all the kids and grands. They love this and look forward to seeing the painting each year. And I bought my neighbor gifts from my Girl Scout granddaughter, not cookies, but nuts or chocolates. I still have only about 10 people to buy gifts for. YAY!🎉

[@alyssarosengard6674]

I just ordered my stamps. Will begin addressing tonight. I am cleaning the spots of the walls in our apartment because we are hosting Christmas. We have a dog and somehow his slobber goes all the way up the walls. I also am a minimalist and I do have a Holiday Party for my husbands works so I did have to order a few accessories. That is done so I am ready to go and dance.

[@CynthiaMiller-cc3qj]

Dear Diane, my primary bdrm is already pretty clean but I do need to vacuum under the bed & wash the window. It’s raining today here in Texas so the window is tomorrow. I’m expecting a delivery from Amazon today so I’ll be wrapping gifts on Thursday. I’ve been keeping up with friends by phone & have several parties to attend in Dec. My Holiday outfits are already grouped together in my closet & holiday jewelry lives in one narrow drawer in my jewelry chest. Thanks for all the guidance. Love your videos.🎄❣️

[@juliemix3373]

Diane, Thanks for the Christmas card reminder. I need to get cards for sure. Cheers

[@DianeinDenmark]

You are so welcome, Julie - have fun with the cards!

[@hilaryelworthy1464]

Thank you for keeping me on the ball in preparation for Christmas. I keep forgetting the self care until Sunday night but have had a few lovely evenings talking with a friend or having a face mask moment. I look forward to your regular videos, they are a bright spot in my day. Thank you xxx

[@eileencarroll6418]

Several holiday outfits set aside. Casual to cocktails. Some T-shirts with "merry" or "cheers" in sequins for decorating and craft days. Some sparkly or dainty outfits. Lots of reds and greens and golds. Winter boots ready but wearing flipflops today (weather to change any day now.) Organized handbags last week. Still need to pair Christmas jewelry with party outfits (this week). Gifts ready except for checks to grandkids. Need wrapping paper to disguise boxes or winter-pantry extras as Christmas present decor. (I should really wrap and hide the winter's worth of snacks from myself.). Buying and organizing extra winter nonperishables every other day so I can do a little at a time. Starting to refresh batteries in Christmas candles and lights. I do a few each day at dusk. Lots of appointments and grocery shopping this week, so hair and pedicure appointments must count as self care. I feel the need to deep clean two bathrooms next week, then deep clean kitchen after Thanksgiving and turkey soup are done. And of course, LOL every day. 🧺❤🧺❤🧺❤🧺❤🧺❤🧺❤

[@jrcs1347]

Done half my wrapping and washed/freshend up my festive jumpers this weekend

[@SharonKBM]

Thanks, as always, for your weekly dose of sunshine. I am feeling unusually stressed about the holidays this year. I'm just not looking forward to them at all so I plan to have a quiet Christmas season this year.

[@marciakistner8977]

Thank you for the motivation!

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

Brilliant as always, Diane! My bedroom needs my attention so this is great.

[@LaLaCindy226]

I have been looking forward to this week in bedroom. My closet needs lots of attention. Yay ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉

[@theresepazell7875]

Hope you take us shopping w u again it was so nice the shops the lights decorations.. T.Y.

[@rutht634]

❤ Looking forward to Christmas. And, yes, been following through with your planning. 😊

[@DianeinDenmark]

Yay! And THANK YOU, Ruth!

[@jackiebowen6239]

I am OK because of your timely reminders to keep on planning (and doing!), Diane--woohoo! Your videos are part of my self-care 💙

[@Diana-yj2ko]

I'm slowly following the plan, but I have lots to catch up . Thank you for your guidance.

[@janamarek]

Love the cozy candle!

[@vpeacock]

Just what I needed to hear today, especially the nudge to get wrapping! I hope you’re ok, Christmas time raises so many emotions, lean into your self care this week. I’m enjoying the Anastasia Hastings novels and loving your tip of getting to know my local library. Funny how that is helping me to declutter some of my books, knowing that I can usually find them if needed. Take care xx 🌸

[@valdutekibildute7394]

Oh, how much I would like that my bedroom would look better than now, so I'll make some changes and some things are going out this week :-) I made a plan for what I am giving as gifts this year. And planing to bake some Christmas cake soon :-)

[@MotherMuse]

I tell you Diane, the run. up to Halloween can get overwhelming, but on the heels of that we have 3 birthdays in November within a week before it's even Thanksgiving... if we get through all that, before even a breath I realize Christmas is practically here! If only all these birthdays were in June or something lol...

[@clarewoosley8376]

I probably won’t be doing any Christmas decorating since I live alone and I’m still trying to just get Decluttered! So I haven’t been watching your Christmas videos. Looking forward to more of your videos after Christmas.

[@kathrynbaker2255]

Self care: a call-in day to sleep off a cold and sore throat 🤒 Bedroom does look a bit rough. I will set my timer later this afternoon to tidy up and make it cozy. ⏲️

[@jennyahrweiler4034]

Your videos are such a big help. I'm totally thrilled. I'm so motivated and organized this year. Thank you very much.❤ greetings from Germany

[@sabinek.6927]

Ich auch 😉 Liebe Grüße aus Österreich ❤

[@DianeinDenmark]

Oh, that's brilliant, Jenny - glad to hear it's going so well!

[@DianeinDenmark]

Danke, Sabine!!

[@suer292]

So helpful Dianne, have a lovely day❤️🌿

[@porgie2-28-21]

Cleaning - I want to organize things on the desk in the guest bedroom Planning- I will work on my cards Self-care- I will get a few outfits together. I want to shorten a skirt that I am hoping to wear. Thanks Diane, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving and Christmas.

[@DianeinDenmark]

Perfect plan - good luck with the alteration!

[@porgie2-28-21]

@@DianeinDenmark Thanks so much. You are always so kind, Diane.

[@tammyf8921]

I look forward to seeing your tribute video for your mum! Hugs!🫂 🎥

[@AubreyR-x7z]

Thank you for your videos!

[@emilysteen8070]

Ready for Christmas and all the coziness 🎄

[@annknowles9069]

Thanks for keeping going with these inspirational videos. I know how the routines help with keeping on track and activity prevents ruminating. From my own experience though I would stress that rest, as well as active self care, is crucial in coming to terms with grief. Sometimes just make yourself lie down, empty your mind and rest. There's all tomorrow untouched. Very best wishes xx

[@jeannebowes2898]

I have just one order to make, then done in the gifting department. Zone four complete. I just plan on raking as many leaves as possible before snow cover this week. I will have to pick up some fresh items for Thanksgiving and the tree will get decorated by grown sons that weekend. This is my second Christmas without hubs.

[@marie.018]

I just declutterred some items from the living room

[@DianeinDenmark]

Yay, go you, Marie!

[@sabinek.6927]

Thank's Diane 😊 Office Christmas Party this Saturday 🎉 Dress and jewelry is ready ⭐

[@DianeinDenmark]

Woo hoo, have fun - and a dance for me!

[@sabinek.6927]

@DianeinDenmark 💃😉 btw: bought an Instant Pot and love it. Will try some of your recipes. It's so easy, fast and you can do what ever you want while "cooking" As the Instant Pot is not common in Austria I did not know it before. My husband loves the pulled pork and my dog the chicken 😅

[@haiku5756]

Thanks for helping me plan for the holidays - it is truly helping! Also, yay to Nick Cave : )

[@DianeinDenmark]

Ha ha, thanks! I'm sure hubby will love the mug! 😁

[@rebeccam1027]

Thanks for the org help. Your hair looks beautiful! Love that style and color-or no color 😁

[@monikamarsollek3493]

Hi Diane, thank you for sharing! I’m looking forward to meet a friend today and 24 friends on Friday: a ladies group, we prepared handmade little surprises for Advents Kalenders for everybody of us, and giving an extra one for a winner of a raffle , who has given a donation for a 'water for everybody" project. Love, Monika❣

[@CatherineButterfill]

Loving your Christmas videos Diane. Was in Krakow in October and visited the Wieliczka Salt Mines, Nick Cave was performing there this year, 100 metres underground. The most amazing venue. Maybe, something to check out for your hubby😊x

[@sallycroft2191]

I love the tree and few decorations at Christmas around my home. But so tired of trying to find gifts and the expense with large family. It overwhelming each year. I feel like scrooge even expressing that sentiment.

[@lindamast2766]

Would gift cards work

[@erikabossie]

Need to get new warm socks to go ice skating ❤

[@ElFee26]

🎉 Danke

[@prairierose1115]

Thanks again Diane. I have streamlined Christmas so much that it is easy. Over the years the season has gotten out of control and far from the original message.

[@mariahwilson6505]

So thankful for these videos dear Diane! Trying to follow your list however I am panicking because our postal service (Canada) has gone on strike! 😮 Any suggestions to work around this for purchasing and posting cards would be helpful!?! ❤

[@almostahippie]

❤❤❤

[@christycompton4482]

❤

[@angelawhitehead1785]

❤️

[@rhondawhite6340]

❤ 🎄

[@marthaosborne9625]

🎄

[@KB-tr4cg]

💙

[@ellenbarnicle599]

😊

[@anga7261]

😀

[@cmck2021]

Diane, I would like to apologize. Some time ago I made a snide remark on your comments section. I'm sorry. ❤

[@dagnolia6004]

🖖

[@clarevknowles]

😊❤🎉

[@ThePennySaver]

❤🤶

[@DianeinDenmark]

👋🏼😁🦌

[@ewilson9435]

Are you kidding has it been 5 weeks already.