I can’t believe I’m about to make this statement, but it’s almost time for Christmas. Can you feel the stress in my voice? Each year, I vow to make things less stressful in our house for the holidays – sometimes I’m successful! Here are a few tips that work for me –
- Visit Santa at the mall before Thanksgiving. We did this last year to avoid the rush and it was great! We were the only people there, we had plenty of time for the “perfect” picture and even though Maggie was too young to chat, he spent time visiting with her.
- Allow extra time when traveling! If traveling during the holidays, allow yourself extra time! There’s no need for added stress with short layovers while flying. If you’re driving, make frequent stops to get out and stretch, get a good meal or maybe do some shopping along the way!
- Make a Christmas present list! It’s helpful when trying to budget your money and it guarantees you won’t forget buying a gift for someone! I’ve already started working on my list!
- Shop online!Take advantage of free shipping and online specials. Some of the best deals I find every year are online-only sales! The best part? I never have to leave my couch!
- Put a baby gate around your tree! If your toddler has grabby hands, like mine, a baby gate will save you instant stress. It may look a little funny, but it works! No need to worry about little ones opening presents and/or trying to climb the tree!
- Start your grocery list now! We host Christmas at our house every year, and having a list of things we need saves time and buying too much. Don’t get caught up in the rush of trying to find four packages of rolls, the night before Christmas..it’s nearly impossible. Trust me, I’ve tried.
- Take a personal time out! Stop and soak up the season! Relax with a cup of coffee at the mall and take in some good people watching and holiday cheer! I always like to hang out near Santa’s spot and watch kids giddy with excitement!
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help!Let Tiny Prints do the tough work when it comes your Christmas cards! Pick a design, choose your family picture and they’ll take care of proofing it, printing it and even mailing your cards! Simple!
- Shop AFTER Christmas! Plan ahead for next year by stocking up on wrapping paper, decorations and kitchen items at post-holiday clearance sales. With prices marked down, you can save a ton of money this way!
- Don’t forget your family! Set aside time in the days leading up to Christmas for your family! Bake cookies, watch Christmas movies (my personal favorite – Frosty the Snowman!), drink hot chocolate and snuggle with your kiddos! It’s a great way to remind yourself to slow down and enjoy the holidays!
How do you survive the holidays? What keeps you from stressing out? Tell me your tips…
I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Tiny Prints blogging program, making me eligible to get a $75 Tiny Prints gift certificate! For more information on how you can participate, click here.
Comments
Jessica
Great list and love the idea about putting a baby gate around the tree. Last year I cringed every time my toddler wobbled near ours.
As far as shopping online, my shopping will be a little tougher this year since I refuse to shop at Amazon. They have just about everything on my list and in most cases, the cheapest prices; however, I refuse to support them due to the ridiculous statement they made about selling a "certain" book.
Carrie with Children
The gate is a life saver! They are a little pricey, but totally worth it!
Emma
Great tips!!! I see you what you mean by the gate! Fab idea.. The tree looks beautiful!! 🙂