Every year about this time we swing into a frenzy of shopping, cleaning, decorating and preparing for a season that is supposed to be sacred and pleasurable. We strive to make everything perfect and by the time New Year's Day rolls around we are ready to drop from exhaustion and stress..
This year try something different. Rather than looking 
at what you want to accomplish as part of a series of difficult chores, see it as part of an inspiring ritual of preparation that is rewarding and satisfying instead or draining and exhausting. Take a tour of the house to decide where to focus your time and attention.
Start with the entry. Most of use a garage or side door on a regular basis and don't even see our front door very often. Does it need to be de-cobwebbed and washed, the glass cleaned, brass fixtures polished? How about the foyer, and the chandelier, perhaps a stairway? Remember that these are what guests see first.
If you plan to have overnight guests, such as out-of-town family members, make an inspection of the guestrooms. Unused bedrooms tend to accumulate the things we don't use, along with a lifeless feeling. De-cobweb, edge the carpet, wash the linens and polish the furniture and woodwork (use beeswax for a wonderful aroma and glow). Some greenery, flowers or candles can make the room fee! like a sanctuary.
The fireplace is important for the holidays because it is often the focal point of our holiday gatherings. Have it checked and cleaned by a certified chimney sweep. Is the glass clear so you can see the cheery flames of the fire? Glass cleaner and a razor blade work well here.
Consider the meals that you will be serving. While making out menus and lists, don't forget to check the oven. Does it need cleaning? How about the fridge? Take out those old unidentifiable leftovers and condiments and make room for all the delicious Yuletide goodies.
Inspect the dining room, an area than in many homes is rarely used except on holidays. Check tablecloths, pads, crystal and china. Does silver need polishing? Give the room the full treatment just as you did in the guestrooms. Don't hesitate to hire out for some of these jobs -- it's a worthwhile investment in time and peace of mind. Save your time and energy for the things you really enjoy.
If you want to remove stress from your Christmas season, don't strive for "House Beautiful" or compare your home decoratinng with 
that of your neighbors and friends. Instead focus on things that have meaning for you, your life, your family, your traditions.
As a child, I took hikes in the woods with my mother every fall. Late in the season we would often find bittersweet, a vine with lovely dark orange berries, and bring some home. One N'ovember, years later, I came across a huge spread of it on a neighbor's fence and got permission to pick as much as I wanted. I trimmed six-foot long sections and hung them over doorways and windows in the family room. It was very festive and brought back sweet memories every time I looked at them.
Do what makes sense for you and your family. For example, my friend had such a hectic schedule one year that she didn't have time to choose and purchase a traditional Christmas tree. Instead, she placed a Norfolk Pine on a table near the fireplace and decorated it with tiny lights and delicate ornaments. It was lovely and practical for her family.
There is no need to limit your decorating inspirations to the "public" rooms of your home. Why not place an advent wreath and greenery on a dresser in your own bedroom or special holiday candles in the bath?
Cheryl Mendelsom says in her wonderful book "Homecomforts, The Art and Science Of Keeping House," "When you keep house, you use your head, your heart and hands to create a home - the place where you live the most important parts of your private life." So relish this time of preparation, savoring each ritual, task, and creation.
Lisa Martin is a master housekeeper with Housekeeping Specialists.
