The holidays are over and we're slowing starting to get back to " normal".  Whatever " normal" means to you. Our " normal" by my sister's definition is just crazy. And she doesn't even live with us. So all the holiday decorations are back in boxes, tree folded (I did my best, but can never get it back into the box) back in the garage and my fridge has some hope of healthy eating. Now I need to get organized and ready for 2011 - whatever it may bring.

1. Start by buying a wall calendar - best time to buy is now - most are 50% off.

Mark all birthdays/anniversaries throughout the year. Check on-line for your  School Year Calendar for PA days, Breaks - know when the kids are home. Update when payments are due. Doctor's/Dentist appointments. Furnace check-up. 2.  Organize your closet. I actually empty it, then sort by piles.   Donate, Repair, Wash and Keep. It's hard to get rid of clothing.  Some actually hold sentimental value - why, not quite sure. But do I really need to keep my I Love Daytona Beach, Spring Break, 1990 t-shirt? Yeah...I do! Even if it's just proof that I went. Remember when I was fun? 3.  Re-arrange your home. It's surprising when you move different pieces of furniture around, you might actually create more space. Just because they call it a TV stand, it doesn't have to be used for the TV. Even a Buffet table can go in the hall.  A desk is not just for studying. Creating a feeling of a little more space, creates a better flow of daily events. 4. Don't forget your car. Have a blanket in the trunk, check the tires, time for an oil change? I carry extra snacks in the car, CDs for the kids, just in case of traffic delays and weather.  And I try to always have at least half tank of gas - you just never know how long you'll be sitting in traffic. 5. Take advantage of all the season's sales. Best time to purchase Christmas items - yes, I know, you've had enough, but this is when I buy our Christmas ornaments at Hallmark Canada - where most locations have 75% off. Call the location first to make sure.  Some only have 50% off. Stores are independently owned. Beautiful, dated ornaments that remind you of the year pasted.  "New Home", "Parent's to Be", "Our First Christmas Together", "Baby's First Christmas", and photo insert of "Our Family". Winter clothing is also a good time to buy.  Buy a bigger size for next year for your growing children. Winter jackets, pants, gloves, hats. You'll thank me next year. Have a wonderful start to a New Year.