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The thoroughbreds were getting anxious behind the starting gates as they waited for the sound of the bell. Despite warm coats, their foreheads glistened with sweat even as their breath created small, frosty clouds in the cold morning air. They were warmed up from the trot in the parking lot and were ready to start the race.

In nervous anticipation, one filly rammed up against the barrier, and the ensuing commotion triggered a cacophony of whinnies from the other entries—each expressing her displeasure over the tension of the delay. These creatures were created to run, not wait!

Suddenly, mercifully, the gates finally gave way and the race was on. The contenders rushed forward in one accord. Mass chaos ensued while the champions clamored for first place. Without regard for the competition, they pushed and shoved to capture the lead position as they dashed down the sparkling, tiled corridors of Towne Plaza Mall. Yes, the mall.

The Christmas season opened at 6:00 A.M. and the mad holiday competition was on. Each woman raced the halls toward the largest department store. They were determined to be one of only fifty shoppers who would receive the prize—a limited-edition hand-blown glass ornament worth roughly $3.79.

There's a theory that suggests that the amount of holiday frustration in families increases proportionally to the amount of money you think you're going to spend over your holiday budget. It will take the average American consumer until next May to pay off this season's credit-card debt. Financial tension is one of those not-so-great gifts that keeps on giving—to you and your family.

But there's good news, you can decide to stop the insanity by making a few changes in the way your family shops for Christmas. This will provide relief from not only the financial pressures of the season, but it will help your family escape the frenetic pace of the holiday race. Consequently, your family will be able to celebrate the season in a more meaningful way.

Here are a few ideas that can help you sidestep the racetrack of Christmas chaos and gently gallop in pastures of peace.

So how do you avoid the pressure to buy, buy, buy during the holiday season without becoming a hum-bugger? Statistics show that the sooner in the month people complete their holiday shopping, the less money they spend when compared to procrastinating friends. So purpose to get your shopping done early. The result will be less stress and more money. When gifts are purchased early, there will be less time spent in malls during the busiest time of the year. Studies show that less time spent in a mall translates into fewer impulse buys. Instead, this time of the year can be used to its full advantage—especially by shopping early-season sales.

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