Loss is not only experienced through death. Maybe you lost a job this year. The loss of income may affect your spending this season. Set a realistic budget and stay within it. Prepare children for the expectation that this year there may not be as many presents given or received, but the holiday can still be meaningful.

Loss is also experienced through divorce. When children are involved in a divorce, the loss of holiday family traditions are usually felt. Decide with the children what new traditions they would like to start, and what old ones they would like to keep. Reassure the children that it's o.k. to spend time with the other parent during the holidays. Finally, don't overbuy to make the children feel better, and ease your own guilt. The children are experiencing a loss, and giving them more presents than usual won't make anyone feel better.

Did you move this year or know someone who did? If you moved this year a great way to make new friends in your neighborhood is to have an open house on Friday evening and serve dessert. Buy a few pies at Marie Callendar’s or Village Inn and brew some different flavors of coffee. You won’t spend the evening in the kitchen, but will be able to socialize with your new friends. If you had a friend who moved away this year remember them on your Christmas card list. Helping your friend keep the connection with the “old” neighborhood will help with the transition to the “new” neighborhood.