It comes only once a year (thank goodness!).  Homes, storefronts and people are decked to the nines.  Brightly lit and ornamented trees appear out of nowhere!  What is this madness, you ask?  It's Christmastime!

I love Christmas.  It's my favorite time of year, but I'm glad it only comes once a year!  There are gifts to buy, cookies to bake, parties to attend.  How does one keep their sanity at this often insanely hectic time of year?  Here are a few helpful hints:

• Prioritize.  Do what you and your family love. There is no law that says you have to attend every party, buy a gift for everyone, or decorate every corner of your house.  Decorate the tree with the ornaments that mean the most to you.  Bake only your very favorite cookies.

• Set limits.  Make a gift budget.  Make a list of who you will buy gifts for and Put a "cap" on the amount you will spend on each gift.  Decide this ahead of time.  Knowing that our daughter will receive gifts from grandparents, aunts, and uncles on both sides of the family, we give her only three;  an outfit of clothes, something fun, and something educational.  If you have a large family, drawing names is helpful...and fun!

• Be creative.  Enjoy some old traditions, but incorporate some new ones, too!  Have a movie marathon where you show your favorite Christmas movies.  Invite family and friends.  Have them each bring a snack to share.

• Last, but not least, do something for those less fortunate than yourself.  Get the kids involved, too.  This activity tends to change your perspective.  It doesn't have to cost much.  You will come away feeling more grateful for what you have, and the good feeling that comes from helping others.