1. Even though I love the holidays, I also dread them because of the stress involved. I feel on-edge, my children are out of sorts and my husband and I seem to fight about family and activities to attend. I don’t want to feel like Scrooge this holiday season. Are there ways to minimize the stress and actually enjoy this time of the year?

The holidays can be overwhelming if you allow the activities and commercial hype to take over your schedule and life. Approaching this time of year with intention and planning helps prevent family meltdowns and conflict.

First order of business is to purchase a small notebook and write down a list of what needs to be done during this season. Include everything you can think of from shopping to baking for school events. Then put it all on a calendar according to deadlines.

Next, you and your husband sit down together and go over the list. Prioritize the list and make sure there are activities you both like and agree to keep on the list. You can turn down invitations and reduce your volunteering if the list looks overwhelming.

Third, consider shopping-online. You save time and the hassle of crowds. To save money, watch for free shipping days.

Finally, focus on the spiritual side of the holidays. The commercialization of Christmas is emphasized in our culture, so you must do all you can to promote the true meaning of Christmas. Read the Christmas story, attend church services and special programs, pray as a family and take the time to sit quietly in front of your tree and thank Jesus for being Emmanuel, God with us. It is this reality that brings peace to our lives.

Despite the stress, the message of Christmas is about joy, peace and hope. The light of the world has come! Rejoice!