Less Stress This Holiday Season

The madness has begun. Black Friday unofficially kicks off the Christmas season and the rush for the perfect holiday often leaves people drained during what can be a magical time for kids and adults. Let's talk about some ways to lighten the mood and bring back the spirit, shall we?

Shop online. You never even have to get out of your pajamas. Lots of stores are doing online sales or are cheaper anyway. See something you like at a retail store? Better yet, check eBay or Amazon. I used to make Christmas lists with hyperlinks for my dad. He loved not having to look for stuff

Shop with friends - if you must trek out, take your best buddy or a group of people. Go with friends who can have a good time in any situation. Make games to keep the season light like who can find the ugliest sweater or the item you think would be highest on Johnny Depp's wish list.

Make gifts with kids - you don't even need your own. If you have nieces or nephews or offer to watch a friend's kids and set up different crafts to make. You can make ornaments, treats or homemade gifts. This Is also a great experience for kids and to talk about the gift of giving and family.

Keep CDs available - maybe you get to the point if you hear Jingle Bell Rock one more time, you will scream. I've been there. Make your own Christmas playlists or CDs and keep some non-Christmas music handy in case you need a dose of the norm.

Holiday movies - everyone has a favorite and for some people, it's not Christmas until you watch it. My family always watched A Christmas Story in Thanksgiving to kick off the Christmas season. Set up a tradition with yourself or your own family.

Bake or wrap with a friend. Pour a glass of wine or cocoa and make your holiday treats with someone else. This year, I invited my sister in law and nephew to help me do this. We will put on some music and make a great night of making.

Personalize your wrap - lots of times I choose gift bags because they are easy and reusable, but making wrapping paper can be fun. Also, personalizing tags like printing a picture of the recipient or put a silly picture or joke are fun too. My dad was making memes on his gifts before it was cool.

Volunteer - remember, this is a time of giving and one of the greatest gifts is your time and dedication. Food banks are usually overflowing with volunteers this time of year, but start a campaign to write cards to soldiers in your workplace or collect toys for a local shelter. Also, help a friend

Check out dollar stores - sometimes you can find great small items at a dollar store. They Also sell wrapping supplies super cheap and are usually never crowded.

Remember to be kind - smile at a stranger, be patient and try to remember that everyone has their own hardships and reason for what they are doing. This can be hard when someone cuts us off or takes the last hot toy, but that is when it is most important.

Learn about other holidays - a great way to become more culturally aware is to learn about their holidays. What do people in India do this time of year? What about people in Chile? Find out about other religions. People often fear what they don't understand. Build bridges with understanding.

Remember your basic needs - eat healthy, get adequate sleep, and take time to just relax.

However you celebrate, do it with love, light and a smile. No matter how someone wishes you happy tidings this season, remember the message is "I care" many blessings this season and have a happiest of New Years!!!!

Please "like" this tip and spread some cheer.