As the holiday season approaches, do you find yourself frantically exclaiming, “The holidays are coming! The HOLIDAYS are coming!” just days before the chaos of gift-giving and festive feasts begins? You’re certainly not alone.
The dates for Hanukkah shift every year based on the Jewish calendar, unlike Christmas or New Year’s, which can catch you off guard when you’re least prepared. Even if the dates were fixed, I’d still procrastinate until the last moment—there’s something thrilling about a deadline that keeps my adrenaline pumping.
With family arriving for dinner (which, let’s be honest, is take-out presented on our finest dishes), I hastily arrange a few menorahs, toss some dreidels about, and if I’m feeling particularly ambitious, I’ll tape up our dreidel stockings and wrap the banister in shiny blue and silver tinsel. My aim is to create a festive vibe, and hey, I like to think I have a flair for it. (Watch out, Martha Stewart!)
The holiday season truly is a magical time of year. I adore the sparkle of the “Festival of Lights,” the glow of Christmas lights, and just good lighting in general. However, as the days speed by, that holiday cheer often transforms into stress fueled by procrastination. My gift list seems to grow exponentially, just like my waistline after devouring a box of chocolates. Between planning how to record my favorite shows I’ll miss while entertaining and deciding which restaurant to order from, the pressure mounts. Where are Santa’s elves when you need them?
While the holidays can be overwhelming, a little bit of humor and some clever strategies can help lighten the load. Here are my top tips for making it through the season:
- Announce a vacation, but just stay home.
- Avoid returning to the same hairdresser or nail technician; it’s one less gift to worry about!
- Stash your scale and opt for comfy clothing.
- Personalize your holiday cards with whimsical mustaches on all the cheerful faces.
- Swap regular coffee for decaf, and then decaf for a little holiday cheer.
- Indulge in chocolate with every meal.
- Do your holiday shopping at the grocery store; gift cards are always a safe bet.
- Skip the wrapping and cards—say you’re going “green.”
- For holiday gatherings, opt for potluck meals. For the kids? Good luck!
- Stay home from November 26 until January 2; think of the gas you’ll save!
- Encourage guests to wear festive colors that represent their holiday.
- Save on hair coloring by claiming your silver strands are just tinsel.
- Re-gifting is just fine—just don’t send it back to the original owner!
- Laugh often; it’ll soon be over. Drink more, and the time will fly!
- If all else fails, add eggnog to your coffee morning and night.
No matter which holiday you celebrate, remember it’s a wonderfully chaotic time of year. Happy Holidays!
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Summary
The holiday season can be a whirlwind of preparation, stress, and unanticipated surprises. This light-hearted guide offers practical tips to make the festivities more enjoyable and less overwhelming, ensuring you navigate this special time with laughter and ease.