How many times have you been asked “Are you ready for Christmas?” in the past two weeks?

A dozen? More?

My day job as a branch manager for a bank brings me into contact with many people each day. Seems like I get asked that question at least once a day. I also care for my 93-year-old mother. How can I ever get ‘ready’ for Christmas? There’s so much to do!

Shopping – that’s #1.

Not just for the presents I need to buy, but also for my mother, since she can’t get out much.

Extra cooking

Family visits, parties, potlucks…all require extra time in the kitchen.

Cleaning

Have to get my home (and my mother’s) ready for unexpected – and expected – guests.

Decorating – Last on the list…

I don’t like to decorate. But Mom needs a little Christmas cheer, so out come the boxes from the garage.

How do you get ready for the holidays while caregiving?