Christmas isn't only about gifts - believe it or not. It's about family and friends.

With only a week before Christmas the pressure is on. Do I have enough presents for everyone? Do I have the right presents? How can I make it through all of the holiday parties? If I go to one party - do I have to invite people over to my house for a party? How can I top my best friends Christmas decorations?

Too much stress!!!  Not enough "holiday spirit"!

By being organized - and starting early - you can avoid the last minute stress of trying to fit everything in and make everyone happy. Take notes for next years holiday!

First - you can't make everyone happy. Buying a lot of presents or big presents doesn't make a person happy. Especially if the gift is something that they really don't want, like or need. You all know what I'm talking about.  Gifts that will never be used or will be re-gifted.

So why waste you time, energy and money buying things that people really don't appreciate?

People tend of overthink the holidays. Keep it simple. Keep it real.

Especially as people age and have their own "stuff" - they don't necessarily want their home cluttered with other peoples (idea of) good intentions.

So - how about the "gift of time". Everyone is so busy these days - that spending an afternoon or evening with a relative is worth more than the piece of pottery or shirt (in your style - not theirs).

How about an "experience"? Tickets to a play - with you, of course.

Or tickets to a concert (their pick)?

Or how about offering to babysit your grandkids for an evening (or weekend) so that your son and daughter-in-law could have a much needed break?

How about offering to mow their lawn for the summer? Or shovel their snow? These are great "gifts" from the kids.

Think of gifts that don't clutter their home. Gifts that they can really use.

Gift baskets - edible - are a great gift. Something that most people don't buy for themselves - but make you feel special.

Holidays should be about family - not seeing who can spend the most money.

They are also not about "out doing" each other with the best party.

Keeping it simple will keep your stress down and let you enjoy the holiday just as much as your guests.

And next year - start planning earlier - for an even less stressful and more enjoyable holiday season.

Wishing you all a very Happy and Stress Free Holiday!