Easy tips for being organized this holiday

There's all that shopping.

And the cookie baking.

Don't forget the decorating.

Then there's the wrapping.

And you've got 18 days left to do it all.

The holidays can turn the month of December into a chaotic cram session.

Unless you're organized.

Beth Randall, founder of Joe Organizer, shared tips to help get you organized during a recent appearance at the Carol Stream Library.

Here are some of the things she recommends:

• Gift Certificates: Giving gift certificates -- especially when you don't have an immediate idea -- will take some stress off of you and will give the recipient an opportunity to buy what they want.

• Out with the old, in with the new: Having your children clean out their toy boxes before Christmas will free some space for their new toys. It is also a great way to encourage your children to donate their old toys to less fortunate children.

• Save: It is a good idea to start saving money a few months in advance. Saving a certain amount every month will benefit your pocket when December rolls around.

Randall's company presents programs year-round on how to organize for dozens of different occasions. Her program, "Get Organized for the Holidays," includes discussions on the day after Thanksgiving shopping, when to send Christmas cards, what to gift wrap and how, and several other holiday tasks.

"I give tips on Christmas, and I even give some help with birthdays. I also give a list of 10 New Year's resolutions," she said.