By Coco Clayman Cook
One of the keys to enjoying the Holiday season is proper planning. 
I believe in using the Holiday season as a time to be really kind to myself while enjoying friends, family and the fruits of my labor. I don't believe in running around frantically attempting to find meaningless gifts while neglecting my regimen of health and nutrition. To that end I begin in October by getting my home ready for the season.
As I mentioned in the last few weeks I conduct a large fall cleaning, purging any clutter. By the end of October I take the time to check the status of my entertainment accouterments. This means ensuring that the silver is freshly polished, my wine storage is appropriately stocked and my table linens are in guest worthy condition. I also take the opportunity before Halloween to order my Thanksgiving Dinner. My secret is that I order an entire Thanksgiving Dinner from Whole Foods Market. In the past I have found good use for it whether I donated it to a shelter, served it as a simple and elegant Thanksgiving meal to friends and family or had it delivered to client as a gift. By ordering early, I ensure that I won't be caught up in last minute stress and indecision.
These are just a few of the things that I do to make sure that my holidays are truly special without being exhausting. Stay tuned for more helpful pre holiday tips and tricks.
