You look at the list of things that you have to do and panic! Shopping, baking, decorating, Christmas cards, gift wrapping, holiday party, etc. There's only so many hours in a day and not enough time to get everything done. The result...you don't enjoy Christmas day because you're too exhausted.

Look over your to-do list, is there any of those tasks that can wait until after Christmas to accomplish? If so, mark it off your list. Who says a holiday party has to be before Christmas? People are much more relaxed after Christmas and will appreciate the fact that they can check one more thing off their list - going to your party.

Break down each project into manageable tasks.

• Example #1, invite a friend over to help with baking. You not only get to spend time with your friend, you also get your baking done in half the time.
• Example #2, figure out how many Christmas cards you plan to mail out. Divide that number by ten, and address each batch for the next ten days.
• Example #3, go to a church and sit in the sanctuary. Take time to reflect on the real meaning of Christmas. You'll leave feeling more relaxed and Christ centered.

Christmas Blessings,Brenda Bates