Ask The Mom

This is it, the last crunch before the holiday. I leave you with a few last-minute holiday tips to reduce stress and have a wonderful Christmas.

*If you are cooking dinner, delegate tasks. You don’t need to do everything yourself, and it’s okay to say “yes” when people offer.

*Don’t expect miracles. If you and certain family members bicker all year long, you can be sure there’ll be tension, but avoid known triggers, if possible….and avoid each other…if necessary.

*For great savings, buy Christmas necessities (such as cards, wrapping paper, ribbons and decorations) at post-Christmas sales, items get to 75% off at some major retailers!

*If you have any last minute shopping to do, it’s best to do it during the day. Otherwise you’ll have to complete with some seriously stressed and rushed crowds — not to mention all sorts of holiday traffic. Doing some daytime shopping will also give you some extra time to find that special gift that’s sure to be sold out the first few places you look.

*Instead of pulling out a dozen different cookbooks, take time to find all the family favorites, make copies and put them into one folder you can use every year.

*Buy ready-made—and don’t feel guilty if you’re not a baker or professional chef.

*Don’t want to stand in line at the post office? Go to usps[dot]com and enter “Click-N-Ship” in the search box. You can calculate the weight (and postage) for a package, print out a label and arrange a free pickup.

*Remember to have fun, if it’s your children opening their gifts or making cookies with your kids, take a deep breath and savor the moment.

*Record what worked. Jot down any tricks or practices that went over well this holiday season. Keep a notebook from year to year, detailing your own secrets for a successful and stress-free celebration.

Happy Holidays everyone, and as usual, if you have any questions or need advice on how to stick to your New Year’s Resolution, email me at themomjen[at]gmail[dot]com.

~Jen