by Chris                 Hope they will be of some help to you!

The following are some ideas I use to help me through the holidays.

1.  Try not to be perfect, because it's just not going to happen! :)  (it's a fibro personality trait to try to be anyway!)

2.  Prioritize!  Delegate when able; break tasks into manageable units of time and energy.

3.   Don't forget to make sure you don't run out of medicine over the holidays.  Check your prescriptions for refills.  I personally don't like to try any new medications unless necessary because of possible side effects and adverse reactions.  That is especially hard to cope with when traveling or trying to attend events.

4.  Put out decorations that are the most meaningful to you.

5.  If you send cards, do what is the most meaningful rather than mass-mailings.  Address labels are great and I'll never lick a stamp or envelope.  Use a moist sponge, if necessary.

6.  Dusting with dusting wands or swifters are helpful.

7.  I'm unable to mop so I put clorox wipes under my foot to hit the bad spots.  Short strokes with no twisting or turning

8.  I clean the tub and shower by spraying with a cleaner and let it sit for awhile. (two to three weeks! :)  I then place a dobie or something like it under my foot to clean.  I don't bend or turn, but keep it straight, short, back and forth motions.

9.  Vacuum - use masking tape.  I pull out a long piece and use the sticky part to pick up animal hair, etc. while stepping on the tape.  A hand-held vacuum cleaner is best for those touch-ups.

10.  The extra expense of the holidays can be quite stressful.  It helps being creative with gifts and to remember that meaningfulness counts the most.  I like giving a special photo and frame or ornament with a picture.  If it's not a personal picture there are many beautiful pictures that can be used out of calendars or cards.  A precious gift to me were small cards made with a bible verse on one side and a positive affirmation on the other.

11.  When wrapping gifts, keep the items on the table, take breaks every twenty (20) minutes to stretch. (use a timer to remind you in case you get caught up in the activity)  Prevent over-reaching.  Bows that stick and self-stick name tags suit me best.

12.  Listening to music and using aromatherapy of your liking helps keep the mind from being completely occupied with pain.

13.  Do what you like to do at the time that is best for you.

14.  If you like to bake or cook, then do it, but manage it. ( I prefer to be a taste-tester!!)

15. Figure beforehand what clothes and shoes you'll need for the different things you'll attend.  Keep your feet warm and comfortable.

16.  Conserve energy,drink water and stretch within your comfort zone.  Try to anticipate activities that will increase your pain.  For example:  At church we use folding chairs in the fellowship hall.  My family trys to find me a more comfortable chair to sit in and I bring things for additional support,like a small pillow and, for myself, my neckbrace.  Try not to bring a lot of large pillows so you don't look like you are attending a lamaze class! :)

17.  Find out where the bathrooms are beforehand!  If you can, leave a little bit before the break to avoid the long lines.

18.  Keep a small bottled water with you.

19.  While sitting, if possible, use heat/cold, keep feet up and use a massager. (this works best at home. :)

20.  While standing, use other modalities that may help you, such as magnets and cold/hot applications.  A cushioned throwrug is best used at the kitchen sink.

21.  Try to anticipate the pain.  I understand that many times it just happens no matter what, but be in control as much as you can.

22.  Learn to say 'no' and ask for help.

23.  Repeat number 22!

24.  Take at least 20 minutes of every day to relax, meditate and breathe using your abdominal muscles.

25.  When people tell you how great you look and that you must be having a good day, just smile and try not to make your lip bleed.

Holidays can be very emotional.  It can be very joyous for some and yet filled with sadness for others.  Our hope is that you have support and that you have a very blessed Christmas and holiday season.