How To Have...

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A Merry Christmas

Christmas is a wonderful time, but in the recent years it has become more and more commercialized. Remind yourself what Christmas is about by trying out some of these Merry Christmas ideas that will save you time, money and un-needed stress this holiday season.

Always find time for “I Love you” – These three tiny words can warm even the coldest days. Making an effort to not only say them but show them can relieve much stress in your relationship. You don’t have to go all out all the time, perhaps a dinner or special couple time once a week. Use this time to show your partner that no matter how hectic things get during the holiday season you are beside them every step of the way.

Keep it Simple – You don’t need the added stress of a huge holiday family vacation. If you feel like you need an escape but the thought of jet-setting off to Cuba makes you want to jump off a plane, try taking a family trip around the city to see the different Christmas displays. Many large cities off Christmas tours, or make it a Christmas hunt through your neighbourhood that the whole family can enjoy. It does not have to be fancy to be fun; sometimes just walking around the block admiring your neighbours Christmas lights is enough of a break.

Reflect on the reason for the season – perhaps you are finding that Christmas has become quite commercial for your family. There is no better time than now to sit back and reflect on the meaning of Christmas. Remind you family gently that Christmas is not about getting gifts, but about the gift of giving.

Offer a helping hand – If you have time why not volunteer at a local shelter or agency as a family this Christmas. This is another great way to remind yourself and your family what Christmas is all about. A few hours out of your schedule can make a world of difference to a person in need this season.

Make it a Family Affair – Involving the whole family in the Christmas preparations can make everyone feel special with little effort or cost. If you plan to send out Christmas cards why not involve the little ones. If they are too small to write you can always assign them jobs licking envelopes or applying stamps. They will enjoy the times spent together and will enjoy the important role they have in the family.

Laugh A Lot – If you feel the stress of Christmas creeping up on you take time out to just laugh. Start a tickle war, or a silly story telling game. Although time seems short during the holidays over-extending your self and your time will not make it any easier. Taking time out to relax and enjoy the season will be worth more than any gift you can buy in a store.

Be Creative – We are not all made of money. If you find yourself strapped for cash this holiday season don’t panic, simply use your imagination. There are many cost-effective gifts that are easy to put together. For your girl friends why not create goodie gift baskets, you can get many useful body lotions and cosmetics at your local discount stores. Simply put them in a basket and wrap with pretty cellophane paper. For the men try aftershaves and razor sets, kids are content with crayons or small toys. You don’t have to go broke to make others happy. Keep in mind that most peoples wish at Christmas is happiness and time spent with family, seeing you unhappy will make even the priciest gift seem useless.


By: Kate Paterson