The holidays can be a stressful time for many. Between keeping track of finances and trying to make sure all familial obligations are met, the pressure can build.

Linda Jackson Cole, extension agent for family and consumer sciences at the Chesterfield Cooperative Extension, has some ideas to help take the edge off:

Get Organized.  Make a list of all the holiday tasks and projects you’d like to complete.  Write everything down, prioritize and schedule each on your calendar.  If some things can be done early – and quickly – do them first.

Make a shopping plan.  First, set a realistic budget based on what you can really afford to spend on each gift.  If you use your credit card for holiday gift shopping, use your credit wisely and keep a record of the money spent.  Check your transactions on your billing statement or online.

Online and on time.  All the excitement of the holiday season could push paying bills to the bottom of your to-do-list.  Stay on top of credit card payments by paying them online and on time.  Better than that, pay cash and keep all receipts.

Eat healthy.  Too many holiday goodies can play havoc with your resolve to stay in shape.  Keep your sweet tooth in check and snack on veggies instead, especially if you’re heading to a party where you know there’ll be sweets.  Raisins, apples, cranberries, and almonds are healthful alternatives.  Remember to stretch your food dollar.

Walk off holiday stress and calories.  Set aside time for yourself to exercise.  Choose to walk in the morning before you begin your day or take a quiet walk in the evening.  Don’t forget your headphones so you can walk to your favorite holiday songs!

Start a new tradition.  Keep holiday expenses, as well as shopping stress down, by drawing names for gift giving and agreeing to a price range ahead of time.  Each person buys a gift for the family member whose name they draw.  Everyone will then have time to choose just the right gift and won’t have to worry about spending too much.

Make your own gifts:  Get the whole family involved in baking breads, cookies or candies as gifts for neighbors, teachers and co-workers.

Add a personal touch:  Have your kids make your holiday card this year and send out color copies to family and friends.

Be thoughtful and thrifty:  Give flower bulbs or a plant as a gift – not only are they inexpensive, but they’ll bloom and grow all year long.

Be Creative:  Go for a nature walk with your family – pick up pine cones, leaves and fallen branches to paint and decorate.  Make a wreath, ornament or a special gift for someone on your list.

Skip that expensive sweater:  What’s better than a personal certificate offering to baby-sit, pet-sit, wash a car or cook?  Your gift will be a hit!
Keep it simple.  Watch holiday movies together, go caroling as a family or volunteer at a local shelter.

Clip those Coupons:  Newspapers have great coupons offering savings for your holiday shopping.  Why spend more than you need to?