What can a dad do to make sure there is more joy than exhaustion when the holidays roll around? Organizing Strategist Debbie Williams believes that getting organized early, and staying that way, is the key. "Your holiday preparations do not have to be stressful if you create a 'holiday countdown' – a checklist to halt the madness," she says.

In addition, Williams suggests these easy-to-implement solutions:

• Be prepared. Create a gift list and a budget, and stick to them. Keep it handy so you can easily add ideas for presents.
• Slow down. Use slow times to run your errands so you won't burn out. Grocery shop in the early morning or late evening, and visit the malls during your lunch break while others are at work or in the classroom. Take bottled water and a snack for quick energy.
• Limit interruptions. Screen incoming interruptions to eliminate stress at work and at home. Use voicemail, caller ID and e-mail filters to avoid "chaos creators."
• Have a game plan. Create a plan for preparing holiday meals. Cook rolls, stuffing, desserts and meats in smaller portions for easy heat-and-serve dinners on the big day. This will enable you to keep your focus on family time rather than kitchen duty.
• Open your heart and home. Consider having an open house rather than trying to squeeze in several parties. Invite everyone to visit one home at staggered times for some good cheer. This can work on the "big day," too, especially if all the in-laws live in town. It sure beats driving around all day from house-to-house.