Holidays are a stressful time of year. That's an understatement, I know.

Here are some suggestions that might help make the holidays a bit easier.

Presents:
Gift bags are the way to go and buy them at the Dollar store to save money. I've found some really pretty ones. We recycle the gift bags if there's nothing wrong with them.

Use wrapping paper for stocking stuffers.

Gift cards work great for teens and family members far away.

Are you a writer? Suggest family and friends buy your books for presents. Books are great presents.

Gift baskets are a great way to give a personalized gift. Examples: A coffee mug with a bag of gourmet coffee and chocolate.
A cup and saucer, a tea strainer, a variety of specialty teas, and a box of shortbread tucked in.

Cooking:
If you have a Crock Pot, now would be a good time to get it out. You can have a pot of rich, bubbleing stew going while you're out shopping and running errands.

You can also make a batch of Wassail and put it the crock pot on low to keep it warm for guests and family.

Invite some friends to do a cookie exchange.

If you don't have time to make something from scratch, don't.

Activities:
People try to cram too many parties and activities in the month which is a big stressor.
If possible, plan your activities out with the calendar in front of you for the month. Leaving time open to just enjoy the joy of the season.

Money:
This is a touchy subject but this is the biggest stressor of all.
If you're already in debt putting yourself farther into it isn't going to make this better when January comes around.

Many banks and credit unions have special accounts where you can deposit any amount you like into a Christmas/Holiday fund. This will cut down on using credit cards.

Set a spending limit and make a list beforehand of who is getting what. When you go shopping, this will make it easier to not impulse buy. Use the advertisements from the Sunday paper to help with your list making.

A number of families only buy for the children and they draw names. This is another option to help curb the monetary stress. Other families make a donation to charity or become involved in one, as a way to remember the reason for the holiday.

Don't forget to take care of yourself and enjoy the wonder this season brings.

Hugs to all,
Tambra Kendall
www.tambrakendall.com
Wicked Pleasures, out now from Red Rose Publishing
www.redrosepublishing.com