The ultimate holiday countdown checklist

It seems like the holidays sneak up on us every year. Before you know it, our schedules are packed with busy shopping malls, social engagements, decorating duties and perhaps scariest of all—planning that holiday feast. It's a joyous time of year, but all the preparation can be a bit stressful.

Getting organized and planning ahead is the best way to check off all your holiday to-dos. Here is a holiday countdown checklist to help you eliminate stress and enjoy the season.

New-age advent. Create a holiday activity calendar to map out all social outings and school events. Organize your shopping days and set deadlines to buy gifts, wrapping paper, and cards.

Make a list, check it twice. Make a master gift list, set your budget and start shopping. To help save time, try wrapping gifts as you buy them.

Eggnog anyone? Buy all beverages and other non-perishable items two weeks before the big day to avoid long lines and empty shelves.

Don't forget the batteries. With so much going on, the smaller details can easily get overlooked. A week before make sure you have a supply of Duracell batteries on hand so kids (and mom or dad) can play with their new toys and gadgets right away.

Hands off the cookie jar. Two days before your big feast, start cooking and prepping dishes that can sit for a couple of days without spoiling (or being eaten early). Buy all last minute decorations and flowers.

One more sleep. Make sure to recharge or change the batteries in your camera, video recorder, mp3 player and other electronic devices. And just in case that low battery light starts flashing, keep a portable Duracell instant charger on hand to avoid missing any precious moments. Finish any last minute wrapping, and make a timeline to follow for the big day.

Finally, sit back and relax. The greatest and most important task on your to-do list should be to enjoy your family and friends.

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