How to Handle the Holidays

The holiday season can be somewhat overwhelming. There are so many events and parties, not to mention preparing huge dinners, baking cookies, shopping, wrapping presents—how to handle the holidays?
First, I begin preparing early, slowly and gradually. I call it my "nibble at the mountain method."
Second, I ask for help from relatives and friends.
Third, and perhaps most important, when I feel overwhelmed, I force myself to think only as far ahead as the next day or even the next hour.
Do you have strategies for minimizing holiday stress? Share them.