Like many members of our fabulous Moonfrye community, I’m a busy Mom.  I run my own public relations agency and I’m also CEO of our household and most days I wish I could clone myself -- especially during the holidays! 

With 20 days left until Christmas and only 8 until Hanukkah (!), I offer you my

Holiday Survival Guide

1. Make A Shopping List and Check It Twice -- from family to friends to teachers to babysitters and pets, write down every name and every gift you need to buy.  Create a master list and set up a budget and a calendar -- stick to it.  When all else fails, get a gift card or make a donation in someone’s name.  And don’t forget those gift receipts.

2. To Do or Not To Do -- December is the busiest month of the year so cut yourself some slack! For example, if you can’t make it to the gym it’s ok (most gym memberships wane this month -- you are not alone); take a walk instead.  Find out how you can say No this month and I guarantee you’ll be happy you did.

3. Divide and Conquer -- Delegate, delegate, delegate.  Set up a holiday chore list for every member of the family.  Your partner can help with the gift shopping and the kids will gladly pitch in with the baking and present wrapping (even if they can only stick on a bow).  Start new holiday traditions and remember you don’t have to do it all!

4.  The Early Bird -- Start Early and Save Time and Money --Starting early you’re your Holiday To Do List means more time allowing for creativity and flexibility.  Don’t wait until the last minute -- there are tasks you can do now like ordering holiday cards or planning your dinner menu. Just do it!

5. Make A Wish -- The holidays are about sharing -- and your time is the biggest gift you can give.  Visit a lonely neighbor, offer to pick up groceries for an elderly relative, swap babysitting sessions with a friend, donate.  Big things come in small packages.

6. Stop and Smell The Mistletoe--Don’t believe the hype! Whenever possible, try to maintain a regular schedule at home.  Have a quiet family dinner or family movie night.  Make time to read to your children or play a game. Shut out the world. Routines ground us and help us prioritize.

7.  Treat Yourself -- Don’t forget the most important person on your list -- YOU!  Schedule that hair appointment, meet a friend for coffee, read a book, blog, chat on the phone -- gift yourself the gift of  “Me Time” and this holiday season turn the Holiday Chaos into Happy Chaos! 

 Ho, Ho, Ho!

Laura Rossi Totten is a blogger, writer, and public relations expert...and a mom to twins! Laura’s writing has been featured in many places including the NPR station WRNI-FM. GalleyCat/MediaBistro named her a “2011 Best Book Publicity and Marketing Twitter feed.” She’s been profiled on SheWrites.com and CircleofMoms.com. Visit Laura’s blog My So-Called Sensory Life: 365 Unexpected Gifts from Motherhood and her website Laura Rossi Public Relations. Check Laura out on Facebook and Twitter, too!