YES - The Holidays' are NEAR!

Okay, we know we just got over Labor Day, BUT we need to talk about the holidays. There are many holidays coming up... Halloween, Thanksgiving, and of course, the 'gift giving' holidays in December. Although it may seem that these are VERY far away... there are things you can do NOW that will help you prepare for that time. That way, you'll be cool as a summer cucumber (hopefully) once it gets a bit closer to these holidays. 

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SPOOKY SZN

A.K.A... Halloween

First things for - make a list.  (My oh my does the GTC Team love a good list!  I mean checking off those little boxes, such satisfaction!) This will be everything that you'll need (plus, a little extra from your favorite home goods type store decoration aisle). This will help you from making MULTIPLE, MULTIPLE trips to the store. Here's some things you might need:

• Candy, treats, or whatever you'll give out Halloween Night
• Fake spider webs 
• Halloween costumes (for you AND the kids)
• Candy bag for trick-or-treating
• Flashlights and masks
• Thin, warm clothing to put under costumes for a chilly night. 

Speaking of costumes, getting the right costumes for your children and yourself can be the most time-consuming and expensive part of Halloween. If you are making costumes from scratch, you need to allow yourself plenty of time to get them completed. You definitely don’t want to be rushing around trying to put last minute details on the costumes. If you are buying costumes, you should get them as early as possible. It may be more cost-effective to rent costumes instead of buying.

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Give Thanks, for Thanksgiving

Whether you're hosting a family dinner or being a guest at one, there are steps to take NOW so you're not scrambling when the time comes. 

For the Host

• Check your cookware and kitchen tools
• First time hosting? Learn how to cook a turkey (don't worry, learn here)
• Make your menu and guest list
• Figure out seating arrangements and decorations

For the Guest(s)

• RSVP in a timely manner and ask what to bring
• Prep the serving utensils of the dish you'll be providing AND the carrying case
• Pick out your favorite outfit for you AND the family

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And Finally... the Gift Giving Holidays

• Start saving MONEY
• Create a budget
• Start your 'gift giving' list (actual gifts, stocking stuffers, host gifts, charitable contributions)
• Sort through your decorations and get rid of anything you know you wont' use
• Make your own gift list (just in case someone actually asks you what you want ;)
• Work on your Christmas card
• Make travel arrangements

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We know this list seems ambitious. Believe us - it's not easy having this all together. But TRUST us in knowing this will make your life 1,000x easier in the long run. If you need help, know that GTC is only a phone call away!