There’s always that feeling that there’s one last thing you need to do during this busy holiday time.

What’s missing? What have I forgotten? Who have I forgotten?  Did I remember to...??

The last minute crunch can drive you crazy and play havoc with your fun. Take a few minutes to relax and to consider your last minute list, then look for ways to fill in the gaps!

Some simple ways to take care of gifts and shopping chores at the last minute can relieve your stress and give you more time to enjoy your holiday time doing the things you like. Perhaps the ideas below will give you extra time:

• Buy a great color of nail polish and put it in a bag with a gift certificate for a manicure.
• Buy and wrap a magazine that lists all the new apps for I Phones.
• Order your groceries on-line and have them delivered.
• Consider the possibility of having your holiday dinner cooked by a local provider. Look for high quality food stores and supermarkets that provide this service. The extra cost is worth the convenience.
• Give the gift of time to someone with a note card containing a promise to take them to lunch, go for a walk together or visit a gallery together.
• Buy a special bottle of wine or artisanal spirits and pair it with some cheese.
• Give a card that promises the gift of a home cooked meal to someone who lives alone.
• Give a really great dark chocolate bar and a small bottle of raspberry dessert wine.
• Find a local pre-teen or teenager who can help you wrap gifts. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect. They’ll enjoy the extra $$ and you’ll enjoy the help.
• Find a friend or neighbor who will share the cooking. Each person will cook double their entrée and then share. A great way to ease the pain of holiday cooking. Think about hearty stews, soups and savory casseroles! Add a salad and bread and dinner is done!
• Give the gift of a special recipe that your friends have always wanted. Include one of the ingredients (like nuts or dried fruit) in a small container. Wrap it all up in a festive bag.
• AND... don’t forget that you can still order gifts from Key West Aloe.com until December 22 for delivery before the 25^th.

May you find peace and joy with friends and family during this holiday season.

From your friends at Key West Aloe!