Are you a secret scrooge? Do you sigh at the oncoming stress that the holiday season brings each year? Simplify, simplify, simplify and still stay on Santa’s nice list!

“Less is more.” It’s true of holiday decor, refreshments and—gasp—even gifts. Focus less on material matters and fill your home and heart with overflowing good will. I promise you that your gatherings will be far more memorable when you plan and present them with plenty of good cheer instead of the tension, stress and pressure of hosting a picture perfect party. Greet your guests with those simple party favors of love and laughter. Gift your family and friends with your presence that means more than your presents. And wrap it all up with love.

For many reasons, we didn’t want to spend a ton of money on decorations this year but our home has a nice and unmistakable wintery wonderland feel to it with just some pine branches, pine cones and a few pretty red poinsettias all strategically placed. Our simple holiday table will still glow in candlelight. There is serenity in the simple. It heralds a peaceful spirit that reminds me of the reason we celebrate Christmas.

Here are other ideas for helping you with typical holiday dilemmas that can complicate your holidays:

Creative Low-Cost Family Gift Exchange Ideas
Large families can be hard on holiday gift budgets but these simple gift exchange ideas are low-cost and high-fun.
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art69815.asp

How to Choose a Good Gift
It’s the thought that counts so put some thought into picking out a nice
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art69812.asp

Regifting Tips
Once a social faux paus, regifting today is a good way to help save the planet—and your pocketbook.
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art69813.asp

Gift Card Etiquette
Love ‘em or hate ‘em, gift cards are here to stay, and here are a few etiquette rules to follow
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art69811.asp

Have a peace-filled season and live simply so you can simply live.

Lori Phillips
BellaOnline Living Simply editor
BellaOnline Japanese Food editor