Tips to help you get through the holiday season

It seemed like overnight, the city transformed into a magical Southern holiday scene with lights, music, + even more shoppers bustling on King Street. Tonight is the fifth night of Hanukkah and there are only 19 days until Christmas.

Are you ready for the holiday season? Me neither.

To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of tips– presented via .gifs– to help you survive.

Bing Crosby in White Christmas | .gif via giphy

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Cue Adam Sandler– Hanukkah (Chanukah) began this past Sunday, Dec 2.

Adam Sandler Hanukkah | .gif via giphy

Despite the 2013 release of the book Hanukcats: and Other Traditional Jewish Songs for Cats– not all cats enjoy Hanukkah traditions...

Cat | .gif via giphy

It didn’t work for Ross in Friends and it probably won’t work for you either. If the costume shop is all out of Santa suits, don’t try to convince your kids there’s a “Holiday Armadillo” who celebrates both Hanukkah + Christmas.

Friends | .gif via giphy

Single all the way this season? Dress up + take yourself out on the town! However, we don’t recommend dressing up with a wreath on your head...

.gif via giphy

Before heading out to find the perfect gifts, be sure to pack your holiday shopping survival kit– seriously, don’t be caught in long lines without snacks.

Holiday Shopping | .gif via giphy

Speaking of shopping– you’re out there to buy gifts for your loved ones. If your philosophy becomes “two for me, one of them”– slowly, back away from the Target cart...

Target | .gif via giphy

Remember last year when you knew you should have organized the lights as you took them down, but just threw them into the box anyways? Take a deep breath and promise yourself– again– not to do that this year.

Brett Eldrige | .gif via giphy

Don’t stress over every little detail. Together, it will all look wonderful.

A Christmas Story | .gif via giphy

If a man happens to fall off the roof and you put on his suit, the Santa Clause will make YOU the next big guy in red. Make sure you read the fine print before hopping in the sleigh.

The Santa Clause | .gif via giphy

If you’re traveling this season, be sure to count your kids before you get on the plane.

Home Alone | .gif via giphy

No matter how stressful hosting family can be, always be polite. Then pour yourself another glass of eggnog.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation | .gif via giphy

Because in the end– the holidays are a fun, exciting time of the year.

Buddy the Elf | .gif via giphy

No matter which holiday(s) you celebrate.

The Proud Family Kwanzaa | .gif via giphy

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Although the holiday season is my favorite time of year (I truly do become as excited as a kid on Christmas), that doesn’t stop the stresses of adulthood from creeping in. This year, I’ll be traveling back to Buffalo– a mere 13 hours– for a few days to see my family.

Have any tips for me when it comes to surviving the holidays? If so, let me know in the comments below. ⛄

– Justine