Christmas is just around the corner again and you can almost feel it coming. It is the most joyful season of the year. But there are simple steps you can follow to avoid Christmas stress.
Is it the commercial aspect of Christmas that makes you feel stress? Some people do experience stress because of the number of products that is coming out because of the season. In spite of this people still do enjoy, it’s just a matter of mind setting. Know what activities you really need to do and know what does the season really mean.
Do not participate in occasions that are against your will. While there are lots of people who want to celebrate the season, there are also people who are not fascinated or even want to celebrate. If you’re this type of person then nobody is forcing you. Remember you’re still the one who knows what would make you happy, if you think that celebrating Christmas is a little too much then give yourself a gift of stress free Christmas just by saying “No”.
Set a budget and work on it. Money is one of the biggest reasons why people are being stress when Christmas is coming. The concept is very simply, if you’re having problems setting your budget then it’s ok. Just think that the month of December is a short one and it will be January already in just few weeks and its all back to normal including the budget.
Set a limit to your budget if you’re planning to celebrate the season and let others know it most especially the children. This is particular to children most especially if they are requesting for an expensive gift or toy. Some people explain it to their children thru Santa Claus, that it would be impossible for Santa to bring a gift like that since he’ll be also bringing millions of gift to other children around the world. If the child does not care if he is going to be surprise for Christmas but expects to have a gift under the Christmas tree, then, money can be given directly but should be explained also that the gift they will get would be depending on the value that they will be receiving. For teenagers money can be given to them and let them have a chance to go out and have fun with their friends.
Limit your shopping in the malls and retail stores. If you need to buy something you can also check it online. Since there are also a lot of people shopping in the malls you’ll be having a hard time asking for assistance from the sales clerk. Better get the item that you need to purchase and go home immediately.

These cookie mixes in mason jars will be a big hit with everyone!Follow the steps below to make your own cookies in a jar. Gather the basic supplies, pick a recipe below, and fill your jar; and then use my suggestions or your own ideas to embellish your jars.

These cookie in a jar mixes, complete with recipe gift tag, were loved by everyone on our gift giving list! Be creative when you make your jars, and add your own finishing touches!

Gathering Supplies

• Quart Size Canning Jars with Lids
• Scrap Fabric
• Ribbon
• Glue
• Paper
• Recipe and Required Ingredients (below)

Filling the Jar

1. Thoroughly wash and dry the jars and lids.
2. Pick a recipe from below and gather your ingredients.
3. Use the instructions and tips from the recipe you choose and fill the jar!

Decorating the Jar

1. Fabric: Cut a circle out of the fabric that is 6 – 8 inches across. (I traced around the top of a bowl!) Place the round section of the jar’s lid on the jar and center the fabric on that. Screw the other section of the lid in place to hold the fabric. Fluff out the fabric where it comes out from under the lid. 
2. Recipe: Print out your choice of the printable recipe card/gift tag that goes with the recipe you chose. Trim closely around the recipe and graphic. Put a small piece of scotch tape on the upper right-hand section of the ‘Printable Gift Tag’ recipe (right behind the top edge of the graphic). This is to give it a little extra strength. Use a hole puncher and make a small hole in the taped corner. 
3. Ribbon: Cut an approximate 3 foot piece of ribbon. I actually used 2 pieces of ribbon with colors that matched the fabric. Thread the ribbon through the hole in the ‘Printable Gift Tag’ recipe. Wrap the ribbon around the metal of the jar lid and tie it into a bow. Secure in place with a small dab of glue behind the bow and in the back.