Last minute Christmas solutions

We are officially ONE WEEK away from Christmas! For some people that means they're going to start decorating and shopping. I'd like to offer some solutions to survive the chaos of last minute Christmas stress.

Issue 1 - Long lines
-I hate shopping this close to Christmas because the lines are horrendous. Here's a trick I've learned. If you don't have many purchases try going to a different department to check out. There's always the jewelry department or the electronics department. This will save you time and possibly someones life.

Issue 2 - I forgot a gift for...
-There are plenty of ways to not go on a spending frenzy just because it's the last minute. Craigslist.com is a great flexible way to pick up something and you can shop from your home. Restaurant.com is also a quick easy way to order online. Type in the persons zip code and pick a restaurant you think they'd like and purchase a gift certificate in the denomination of your choosing. When the confirmation comes to you by e-mail shortly after just click through to the actual gift certificate and print it off and wrap it up. You can also purchase a gas card while you're filling up. They usually have other store gift cards as well. If you're heading to Meijer for groceries you can also put together a cozy night gift basket. Just use that basket at your house you've been trying to get rid of. Fill it with popcorn, hot chocolate, cozy socks and a classic movie because they're cheaper usually. You can also buy a bag of groceries for someone.

Issue 3 - I keep forgetting things
-Make a list of everything you have to do and tape it to your bathroom mirror. Check things off as you complete them. It's also smart to keep a notepad by the bed and in your purse.

Issue 4 - There's just too much to do!
-You're right! We tend to put too much on ourselves and it causes a lot of stress. Look at your list of things to do and make two categories. One is for Must do and the other is It would be nice if. When you start feeling overwhelmed go for the second list and start scratching off things. Your neighbor down the street will understand if he doesn't get his banana nut bread this year. He'll live.

Issue 5 - When am I going to see and enjoy my family?
-Don't forget that this is a great time of year to spend EXTRA time with your family. Make a point to do something simple together even if it's just for an hour. Pull out an old board game. Look at old pictures together. Watch a Christmas movie at home. Go have a snowball fight. The list is endless.

So this may not be all about saving money but sometimes we just need to survive!