The holidays are upon us and along with the holidays comes the stress. The baking, the hosting, the shopping, the traveling…the list goes on.

I’ve got 4 tips to get you prepped for the holidays and to reduce your holiday stress.

1. Declutter your home. I know that with the holidays brings not only all the decor but also the gifts and treats for my kids. While I am undeniably grateful for all those that shower my kids with love- we are running out of room! With having 2 kids in different stages of learning and development it is hard to determine what to keep and what to donate. My rule of thumb is if I can’t remember the last time I saw you play with it, then it needs to go. If it is something that I know my little one will eventually want to use.

2. Don’t over schedule yourself. Leave yourself time for you and your family to make memories and take in the moments. You don’t have to attend every holiday event, party and light up tree ceremony. Take out some time just for you and yours to be together and relax.

3. Don’t fuss over the food. There are so many options available now for make ahead foods, platters and meals. This doesn’t have to only apply to gatherings. Use the convenience of microwave meals when needed. If I just got home from Baby Ballerinas class, my toddler is having a meltdown and I have a deadline I need to meet for work; my stress goes through the roof. This is no good for my family and more so- it is no good for me. I can’t take care of others if I am hangry! I shop around and find the best catering options. Lately I have been loving Buca DiBeppo and their meals have been such a hit for gatherings.

4. Skip the lines and shop online! But really though…shop online. There are so many deals and steals available during the holiday season that allow your gifts to arrive right at your door. The best thing I like to take advantage of is purchasing online, using gift packaging and sending it directly to my loved ones. Never having to wrap and spend time at the Post Office is a win for this mom. You think a mom of a toddler and a new babe wants to stand in a post office line this holiday season? No thanks.