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T-minus 1 and counting.

by Jenny Meade -- Being Savvy Kansas City

Only a few short days left until Christmas, and if you're anything like me, you aren't anywhere close to being done with your shopping. I'm in full-on panic mode myself.

Trying not to be Mrs. Grumpy McCrankypants during this time is extra hard. Especially for the little ones who are building excitement for Santa Claus, and don't understand your stress. Take some time to treat yourself to a little R&R before the holiday, wherever you can, even if it means locking yourself in the bathroom with a cup of hot tea for 10 minutes while you let their little eyes glaze over while facing that magic light box in the living room. It won't kill them.

If you're at the mall, doing some of that last minute shopping, stop and rest in one of those massage chairs at the Brookstone store, or spend an extra few minutes sniffing the candles and soaps at Bath & Body Works. Some malls even have chair massagers out in the common sitting areas where you can pay $10-15 for a short shoulder and neck massage. It's totally worth it.

Whatever you do for yourself as a parent during this time is just as important to the spirit of the holiday as watching your children's faces light up at the presents under the tree.