Dallas Holiday Survival Guide

It's often hard to feel the holiday cheer when the preparations are so harried and hectic. This year, make good use of the local resources at your disposal. As inspired as you may be by Martha, most of the time semi-homemade is quite good enough. Don't feel guilty about enlisting some assistance. Hopefully, these tips can help you get things done. Just remember to breathe deep and let the little things slide.

Get Out of the Car

Lest road rage get the better of you, don't drive in circles looking for a parking place. It's definitely worth a few bucks to valet. NorthPark, Galleria, Highland Park Village, and West Village all offer the service. The Westin at the Galleria also has a taxi and limo stand if you don't want to deal with driving at all.

Beat the traffic by shopping online and having your party supplies delivered. It's usually more fun to hunt for gifts in person, so order everyday essentials to free your time. Try drugstore.com for toiletries, snapfish.com for photo developing, and igourmet.com for snacks. If you're planning a shindig, visit localcatering.com to match your needs with the best restaurants in Dallas.

Get Out of the House

Winter vacation can be too long for the kids to entertain themselves. Take the family on a few festive, though snow-free diversions: ice skate, drive on a tour of Christmas lights, watch an IMAX movie, or visit the Dallas Museum of Art. Even in December, DFW weather is temperate enough to play touch football in the backyard, window shop in outdoor malls, or get silly with a scavenger hunt.

Get Everyone Else Out of the House

As much as you love relatives, the old adage about fish and visitors rings true. Save your sanity by putting visitors up in a hotel. They need moments of privacy just as you do (and won't have to wait in line for the shower). Create a basket of treats (candy, cranberry candles, long distance phone cards) and small decorations to make the room more welcoming.

Get Some Help

Money might not buy happiness, but it does buy freedom. Professionals can take work off your plate so you can enjoy the things that really matter. Indulge in a house cleaning service, catering (or at least having a few meals delivered), expert gift wrapping, and the services of a professional shopper. Use a baby sitter so you can get in a few afternoons of power shopping. Last, but not least, visit the salon. A mini-facial or massage will help you look as glowing as you feel.