We all know that Christmas will be here before you can say…Santa Claus! There is so much chaos that surrounds the holidays but luckily I have found ways to cut the chaos and turn Christmas in a joyful holiday. Whether it is presents, family, dinners or other situations that surface there are solutions to making it through the Christmas season without being a scrooge.
The simplest thing to do is avoid doing any last minute gift shopping if at all possible. We know there are always a few last minute things. However, complete the majority of your holiday shopping early. Sit everyone down to a fun filled dinner and then write out Christmas lists as early in the year as possible. This way you can start watching for these items to go on sale at various stores and the possibility of you actually finding it is much better. You spread your spending out over a larger period of time and it does not cause as much financial strain during the immediate holiday season, resulting in a less stressful holiday for everyone.
Dinners are another great topic. Where will you have Christmas dinner? Who is bringing what items? Will there be a gift exchange? What time will the dinner be? These topics can easily be discussed while you are gathered for Thanksgiving dinner with your family and friends. Simply enlist the help of a few people to organize the details. Provide a sign-up list for items to be brought, and then provide everyone with a copy. Make phone calls to remind everyone approximately one week from the event. Discuss a gift exchange and set a gift price range. Also discuss whether the children will buy gifts for the other children and adults the same way. Maybe you want to draw names from a hat? Whatever makes it easier for you?
Along with family dinners comes the big time question. What if someone doesn't get along with another person? First of all make sure that everyone knows who else was invited. Place the people that can't agree on different sections of the table. If you see an argument about to happen, simply walk over and take a walk with one of the people and kindly explain that it is a “family function” and that any arguments would greatly affect the bonding time that you have so graciously arranged, and that you would appreciate it very much if they could refrain from disturbing scenes for the remainder of the dinner party. Also, remember to thank everyone for coming and express to them how much this evening has meant to you. Gratitude is always appreciated.
Well, these are a few ways to help with the Christmas Chaos in our homes and family. I hope that you find this helpful. Just remember Christmas is a joyful season and it will be gone before you know it. Enjoy it while it's here.
