Believe it or not, the holiday season is here once again. For most people, that means mixed emotions of joy, stress and panic.

With packed schedules, social events and so many festivities with tempting holiday goodies, it's no wonder that our healthy habits seem to fly out the window as soon as Thanksgiving appears on the calendar.

And all of those extra to-dos seem to squeeze time for activity right out of the schedule. It's no wonder that the average American gains two to five pounds each holiday season. Unfortunately, even after the shock of the scale in January, most of us never lose that weight. Over the years, holiday weight gain can really start to pile on.

To combat this unwelcome gift of the season, "The Eat Smart, Move More... NC" movement is hosting its second annual Maintain, Don't Gain! Holiday Challenge.

North Carolinians are being challenged to maintain their pre-holiday weight through the season, instead of starting the New Year with a couple of extra pounds.

The Holiday Challenge is designed to help people successfully manage the triggers that cause them to gain weight during the holidays. Each week, participants receive free tips on dealing with holiday stress, navigating parties, fitting some exercise into already jam-packed schedules, and preparing healthier treats and meals. They are also encouraged to track their activity, how much they eat, and their weight each week.

The Holiday Challenge is for everyone. Those who are at a healthy weight can challenge themselves to stay there. Those who have lost weight over the past year are encouraged to keep it off. And those of us with a few extra pounds can get a jumpstart on the New Year by not gaining any holiday weight and developing some new healthy behaviors.

To sign up, go to www.MyEatSmartMoveMore.com. It's free, and all you need is an e-mail address so you can receive the weekly newsletters with tips and recipes. An activity log, food diary and weight log are also available to download.

Registration has already begun, and the challenge runs Nov. 19-Dec. 31.

Start the New Year off right by avoiding holiday weight gain. Maintain, don't gain!

If you have questions about this challenge, please contact the Orange County Health Department's registered dietitian, Renee Kemske.