Daily Health News Blog

What to consider when giving a holiday tip If you have many people on your tip list, you may be considering how much to give this year. Though the economy is recovering, many people are still cutting back on tips, but here are the recommendations from etiquette authorities. If you see them more, tip them more. That includes the salon, where the price of one visit (or more) is advised. The waitress at your favorite restaurant should receive more than the mail carrier or the trash man who you rarely see. People who work in your home more than two days a week, such as nannies and housekeepers, should get one week's extra pay, more if you can afford it and want to give it. Be careful not to practice one-upmanship with teachers. Gift cards are a nice thought. Personalize them to a teacher's tastes if you are familiar with them. Day care workers can be gifted, the value depending upon how much time each spends with your child, $25 and up. Money isn't

It is possible to enjoy the holidays without becoming totally stressed and exhausted. Here are a few ways to do it: * Shopping: Order early from the Web. Late purchases can be shipped overnight, but be sure to make a record of each purchase, and follow up to see if it arrived. General rule: Ship gifts by December 15.  * Decorating: Your place will look warm and inviting with just one or two displays. No need to decorate inside and out. Finish decorating by the first week of December.  * Baking: If you are busy, give yourself a break and shop a bakery. * Christmas dinner: Forget a hundred side dishes. Make a turkey, rib roast or ham and add baked potatoes, vegetables, and salad. Keep it simple.  * Demand appearances: Schedule early so there is no confusion. If two sets of parents want you to celebrate with them, schedule one for Christmas (afternoon after your private celebration) and one for Christmas Eve. Consider visits on Sunday before Christmas or the Saturday after.