Smart Solutions for Busy People Archives - WebTalkRadio.net

The key any well-run organization is a set of systems that work efficiently. We can take the same principles home! By focusing on clear objectives and then recognizing and prioritizing the elements of a project we can create systems for nearly anything, from cleaning to holiday activities. Being methodical saves time, meaning you have more time for the fun stuff in life! This week, Deanne Marie shares secrets for creating successful home systems, including ideas for holiday cards, baking and organizing that you can implement tonight! Plus get another Holiday Entertaining Tip, this one is focused on you!

Make sense of the insanity this holiday season with a few simple steps and decorator tricks to make your home shine! From prioritizing holiday plans to decorating the tree step-by-step and easy ways to bring outdoor freshness inside, Deanne Marie shares her ideas and time-saving tips. Learn how to display holiday collections and budget-friendly ideas to use what you already have by embellishing it with holiday flair. Plus, learn a bit of history of the treasured symbol of the season – the Christmas tree and get another great Holiday Entertaining Tip of the Week, this one for the furry members of your family.

Every year at this time we’re faced with a nagging question: “What should I get for ________ (insert recipient’s name) this year?” What if you could answer that question confidently, knowing that you have found the perfect gift? It is possible, with a few hints from Deanne Marie. This week, discover the 4 steps to gift giving and get her #1 secret to selecting the perfect gift for any person on any budget. It’s surprisingly easy! Even finding a gift for the “hard to buy for” person on your list will be a snap! In addition, a listener question about gifts for a person with Alzheimer’s is answered, and the truth about gift cards is revealed. Plus, find out how to make your holiday table look festive in the Holiday Entertaining Tip of the Week.

If the thought of preparing a traditional turkey-and-all-the-trimmings meal this holiday season scares you, you’re not alone. Millions of us hope to live up to the expectations of hungry guests, each of whom has his or her own idea of what the perfect Thanksgiving should be. But with a little help from professional chef Michelle Morgando, home chefs can discover the secret to a perfectly-browned turkey, the key to silky (not lumpy) gravy and what dishes may be made ahead to keep the stress level to a minimum on Thanksgiving Day. After all, you want to enjoy your party, too! Plus, find out how to serve all the food warm (not a cold dish in sight!) and why the turkey needs to rest a bit between the oven and the table … it’s a delicious secret. Also this week, the Holiday Entertaining Tip gives you ideas on staying organized and on time for your holiday event.

Is it ever OK to talk on the phone at dinner? Is there a wrong way to butter your bread? Should you tip the hairdresser if she owns the salon? And just how to tell someone they have bad breath? Whether you’re headed to a holiday party or a business luncheon, taking your pet to the groomer or taking a call from your mother, potentially sticky situations can arise. How do you deal with them? By understanding a few basic guidelines and social graces, even the most embarrassing situation may be addressed with grace and discretion. This week, Deanne Marie answers listeners’ questions about topics ranging from talking on the phone during dinner to tipping for poor service, and provides basic rules for handling technology as well as good table manners in a variety of situations. Plus, get tips on getting three kinds of help with your holiday entertaining.