Although we all have these wonderful visions of what Christmas should be like, rarely are those visions accurate.  I remember when our children were still in school when December 1 came there was a marathon of “must attend” events that often left us feeling tired and cranky by Christmas morning.  After attending the bank concert, the church Sunday School program, class parties, work parties, church parties and a few family gatherings, not to mention the extra shopping, baking and cooking we all do at Christmas was almost anti-climatic.

Christmas is not nearly that busy for us these days, but we still have lots of events we have to attend and we do more shopping in December that in any other month of the year.  And although I am a big fan of early shopping, one is never sure if a gift we thought was a good idea in July still applies or hasn’t been purchased by its intended receiver.

So how DO we cope with that holiday stress each year?  Stay organized and on top of all events.  Make sure you get all the additional activities on your calendar early so as not to antagonize an already busy schedule.  Stay on top of children’s school activities and added work-related events.  Try to shop early for those teacher gifts or make homemade “goodies” like cookies and candy instead of buying gifts.  This gets the children involved and can save money.

Don’t be afraid to say “no” to some events that are not necessary.  If you can eliminate some events you will reduce your time away from home during the holidays.  Reducing the amount of entertaining you feel you need to do will also reduce stress.  Put some of your parties off for the New Year and extend the fun and the energy.

Pick your favorite activities and traditions and make sure that you put them into your schedule.  Sometimes we get so caught up doing what others want us to do and we miss out on our own favorite traditions.  Create time for the things that matter most to you and let the rest go.

Enjoy the season.  Don’t get wrapped up in the commercialism, frenzy and craziness that surrounds you.  Take control of your time and your family and set the mood  you want in your home.  Don’t let others rob you of the enjoyment of this special time of year.