Keeping it Real

Posts Tagged ‘Christmas’

I was out the other day putting the finishing touches on my preparations for Christmas this year.  I found myself spending some time observing Moms and Dads and sometimes their kids shopping, waiting in line, or any one of several other activities that it seems everyone has to do prior to Christmas festivities…

There was a common theme that was rather disappointing… very few people were smiling or enjoying themselves.

There’s no doubt that the time of year adds unnecessary stresses to everyone’s already hectic schedules but there are several things you can do to prevent stress from getting the best of you at this time of year…

• Put perfection behind you – Everyone wants the holiday season to be perfect…from striving to achieve a perfect reaction from your spouse or children to a gift you purchased to desiring the perfect feast and family get together, the perfect gift wrapping and decorations, etc.  Accept that you may not be able to achieve perfection in every aspect of your holiday season.
• Set yours plans for visiting family and friends in accordance with your priorities – There’s nothing quite as stressful as trying to be in 4 or 5 places (Mom’s place, Dad’s place, Granparent’s places, etc…) all at once.  Set your priorities for family visits with family and friends in accordance with YOUR priorities not those of your Great Aunt!  Consider alternating between your’s and your significant other’s families yearly and leave yourself the time to truly enjoy these opportunities – especially if visiting these families requires any significant travel requirements.
• For those last minute items, plan before you shop – It’s natural to forget an item or have to make a trip to pick up a few things at the last minute.  Make a list and plan where and what you will buy before you hop in the car and head to the mall.
• Take a moment to enjoy the moment – The stress caused by hectic schedules and season related to-do lists can be relieved by simply taking a moment to breathe and enjoy the wonderful around you!  Take a moment to remember why you celebrate this time of year.

How do you handle seasonal stresses?

photo credit: isabisa

Posted by Darren Sproat

This morning I walked out towards our Christmas Tree and sat down ready to watch my daughter open her presents.  Her mom was here, camera ready, to capture the reactions as they came.  She tore into the big box from Santa first… it was Rockband 2.  Then, from her mom and I, there were various articles of clothing, a webkinz stuffed animal or two, and a couple other “needed gifts”.

Then, my daughter reached under the tree and pulled out a wrapped gift that just fit into the palm of her hand.  It had a large card on it that she insisted she read to her Mom and Dad.  Here’s what it said:

To Mom and Dad,

This is a very special gift,
That you can never see,
The reason its so special,
is it’s just for you from me.

Whenever you are happy,
or even feeling blue,
You only have to hold this gift,
and know I think of you!

You never can unwrap it,
please leave the ribbon tied.
Just hold the box close to your heart,
It’s filled with love inside…

Love always, …

So, I wrote just a few days ago that life’s great memories are made when spending time with those you love.  My daugther proved that to me this morning… and, it would seem that she, better than anyone else I know, captured the true meaning of Chistmas this holiday season.

I hope all had a very merry Christmas and, as the new year approaches, think about all those you love.  Then, stop thinking about them and call them to tell them about it.  

GOD BLESS!