Dealing with holiday stress can lead to mom’s entering the new year feeling exhausted and drained instead of enthusiastic about a the year ahead. Sadly, the stressors combined with the endless parties can cause problems. After the first of the year some my find themselves needing alcoholism treatment. It happens. Hold up your head, get the help you need and carry forward.
Planning those next twelve months until the next ho-ho-hos can seem a daunting task. It’s important to start by establishing your budget and sticking with it. It might be smart to buy one or two things per month for the year until you’ve covered everyone on your list. Or, you may save a certain amount every month until the holiday season rolls around. It’s up to you to decide. Many like the latter option since sales and discounts are great after Thanksgiving and they want to stretch their dollar as far as possible.
It would be helpful if you limit the number of gifts you give to each child. Have them come up with a list of their top three to five gifts and go from there. Throw in small trinkets and stocking-stuffers like socks, underwear, or hair accessories and your shopping will be quick and easy. You may possibly even check a few people off your shopping list before July 4th. Imagine!
It’s also important to remember that you can’t or won’t see everyone on December 25. You can go through your list of gift recipients and possibly buy a few gifts after Christmas holiday when the sales are awesome as well. You probably won’t see the coach or your childhood best friend until after the hubbub has quieted down anyway, and gifts are always appreciated when they’re received.