It’s a bear. Get it?

Will there be way too many UGG boots and horrible ugly sweaters? Yes. A bombardment of holiday song remakes and impatient shoppers in every store? Absolutely. The best solution? Smile! It will make you and everyone around you feel happier and more relaxed.

Tip#2: Let Grandma be cool. 

“I’m putting this on my Facebook wall!”

If your grandma, uncle or aunt is just now trying out the Mannequin Challenge, don’t crush their dreams. It’s best to let them feel cool to show your love for them.

Tip #3: Embrace your weird family!

If we had to guess, your family has some quirks. But just remember, the fact that you have a family is something to be grateful for. So go ahead and embrace their weirdness, even if they embarrass you.

Tip #4: Don’t feed it to the dog.

If your aunt likes to bring her “famous casserole” that looks something short of a blob monster, don’t make the dog suffer. Try spreading it around your plate to make it look like you ate more than you really did, and no matter what, tell her it tastes great!

Tip #5: For when you have to work, try pie in a jar.

Here’s one recipe to try out.

Tip #6: If  you’re not in Northern Arizona, don’t overdo the winter clothes.

You’ll end up overheating. It’s not worth it. Besides, nothing’s better than getting to brag to your friends who are freezing in the snow while you are soaking up the winter sun.

Tip #7: If you are up North, don’t try to look fashionable. Stay warm.

Bust out with those fur lined boots and super comfy oversized sweaters–all those things your Phoenix try to pull off on “freezing cold” 70 degree days. Flip flops and snow don’t mix!

Tip #8: When at a family gathering,  avoid trendy clothes.

Family member: “Oh no, you’ve got holes in your jeans again? Let me fix them.”

Tip #9: Use a gift bag.

After your hundredth-some present, wrapping isn’t so fun anymore. Our tip: use gift bags.

Tip #10: And hand make gifts whenever possible.

For simple, fun and affordable DIY ideas, check out this blog post from us.

Tip #11:  Try hosting a White Elephant potluck. 

A White Elephant gift exchange is a blast, and a great way to get together with family or friends on a without spending too much. Check out some fun variations and rules of the game here.

Tip #12: Take that extra 30 seconds to let your hot cocoa cool.

We know it’s hard, but you only have to wait a few more seconds. Your tongue will thank you.

Tip #13: That edible work of art probably doesn’t taste as good as it looks

Festive sugar cookie: beautiful, but impossible to bite into.

Tip #14: A family member (or two…or 10) will let you know you’ve grown. Just smile and nod.

Uncle Buster: “My, look how much you’ve grown!!”

Tip #15: Have a list of answered questions ready.

How is school? What is your favorite subject? What college are you going to after you graduate? Have all those answers ready to go!

Tip #16: If you’re single, be prepared to answer why.

Here’s an answer for our Primavera Panthers: Because I’m busy earning good grades in school!

Tip #17: Just remember, pie won’t judge you.

Pie is your friend.

 Tip #18: Mistletoe is best avoided.

You never know where that person standing under the mistletoe has been.

Tip #19: Make sure your phone is on silent.

Of course, off is most polite during celebrations with family and friends. But silent works.

Tip #20: When you can’t take anymore, hoodies and long hair hide earphones well.

This is a last resort.

Tip #21:  Your brain will want you to procrastinate schoolwork. Don’t give in.

A note to our Primavera students: The last thing you’ll want to be doing when parties roll around is homework. Get your work done as early as you can so you don’t fall behind.

Tip #22: For the days you just can’t get out of bed, don’t. Stay right there and do some schoolwork.

That’s the beauty of online school. As long as you work hard, you are more than welcome to stay comfy in your bed while you study.

• Do you have any more tips to add for surviving the holidays? Share with us in the comments below!