Because November started on a Thursday this year, Thanksgiving (which is always on the fourth Thursday of the month) is sneaking up on us early. Hanukkah begins on December 4, and Christmas won't be too far behind. If the holidays left you stressed and frazzled last year, give yourself an early gift this year: get organized so you can enjoy the celebrations ahead.

For many of us, the kitchen is the center of the action for the next few months, so it makes sense to make sure it’s the first room of the house you get in order. A more organized kitchen can make food prep quicker, easier, and more enjoyable. This week's article features four ways to get your kitchen in shape.

Get Your Kitchen Holiday-Ready
Take some time before the holiday rush begins to get your kitchen organized and ready for the celebrations ahead. Here are a few tasks and ideas to get you started.
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In the midst of all of the late-2007 celebrations, it's also time to start looking ahead toward 2008. One of my goals for the new year is to sharpen my time management skills, because when I know what’s ahead each week and have a clear vision of what I need to do each day, I’m invariably calmer, happier, and more efficient.

One component of great time management is having a planner that works well for you. To help you wade through the options available, I've started an article series dedicated to reviewing a variety of paper and electronic planners. The series kicks off this week with a look at one unique and useful entry in the field.
WhoMi Color-Coded Weekly Planner Review
It's time to start planning for 2008! This article series will offer reviews of a series of planners, both paper and electronic, to help you make the smartest choice. First up: a colorful and clever option from WhoMi.
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As always, you can find dozens more organizing ideas, tips, product reviews, forum discussions, and recommendations on the BellaOnline Organization site, www.bellaonline.com/site/organization. Check back regularly over the coming weeks and you'll find a variety of information on making this year's holidays the most organized and enjoyable yet.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours! May you always have much to be grateful for.

My best to you,
Emily Wilska
Organization Editor
www.bellaonline.com/site/organization