A whirlwind of different considerations, thoughts, and feelings may enter the foreground during the holiday season. These can be everyday as well as holiday-specific material concerns and stressors.

A host for a yearly dinner worries whether low-sodium substitutions to an old recipe will spark family-wide praise or ire. Someone else adds up expenses and questions if mailing cards and packages to out-of-state friends will work with her current budget.

Some may simply find themselves in the company of typically far-flung family or friends and wish for an intriguing conversation topic to break the ice. If you want to spend time with loved ones but aren’t thrilled with the annually recurring discussions, why not try bringing something new to the table?

Ask IFAS is the online home of UF/IFAS Extension articles that cover a wide range of subjects in agriculture, natural resources, and family resources. Readers can learn and share so many new, interesting, and practical things by perusing Ask IFAS resources.

Do you have family members who love spending time on the water? UF/IFAS Extension Florida Sea Grant has publications on oysters, reefs, responsible boating, ecosystem services, and much more.

Do you or a friend find insects fascinating? The UF/IFAS Entomology and Nematology Department has you covered.

Perhaps you want to maintain your personal health through the holiday season. The UF/IFAS Food Science and Human Nutrition Department can help you demystify food, nutrition, and diet. Additionally, the UF/IFAS Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences has helpful publications on constructive conflict, communication, and physical activity.

The holidays can be difficult and confusing to navigate. For reliable and practical information that can deepen learning and enhance living during this season and throughout the year, Ask IFAS.

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