We’ve already begun our family Christmastide, so now seems a good opportunity to share what we’ve learned over the years. Every family is different, so what would you contribute to a survival guide?
Create a plan so everyone can contribute and feel part of the festive season in terms of what they buy, bring and do within their budget or opportunity. We’re lucky in having a family spreadsheet (even more fortunate its not run by me) which lets us all share the costs and shopping for the festive season.
Harmony is what really matters. It’s only a few days so bite your tongue, count to 10, pretend not to hear and/or remember you really do love them all. [This is my personal reminder]
Respect that everyone has different needs at this time of year – it’s a tough time for many.
Identify what brings you (and others) stress at Christmas and pare it down or cut it out, from taking on all the cooking to spending time listening to Great Aunt Edith’s complaints
Simplify everything to make space for what really counts the things you all enjoy and love doing
Take the chance to spend time with everyone and let everyone spend time together
Make some gifts and decorations if you can – homemade says so much about how much you care – or if you’re in Leicestershire come and buy some from the Moving Crafts stall at the Swan Inn, Mountsorrel on Saturday 16th December between 12 and 4pm
Ask what everyone would like to do, to eat, to drink and get them on the list so there’s something for everyone and no one is forgotten
Share the planning, preparation, cooking and entertaining of small children. Each task is fun if you don’t have to do it all or all the time.
Space – we all need it however much we love each other
Understand as much as you can everyone’s perspective
Revel in the free things of the festive season – time to walk together, time to enjoy each other’s company
Value each other – everyone is different and amazing and this is a chance to spend time together
Include everyone who wants to be included in activities and recognise some will want to sit some out
Value traditions or make this the year to create some new ones
Activity is vital – exercise brings rosy cheeks and breathing /head space
Laugh together – my memories of Christmas are us all laughing until my sides hurt and tears stream down my face, usually at something utterly ridiculous
Games are a key part of our Christmases together but Monopoly has been banned for some years the sake of peace
Underline the important and make time for it – that’s what is important not just to you but to everyone around you at this festive time
Indulge in the things you all love – walking tours of nearby Christmas lights, a festive visit to the pub together, carols, or charades
Do remember less is more in food, drink, decorations, and presents but that doesn’t mean you love someone less, just that you’ve put more thought into maximising what matters
Enjoy your Christmas when it comes 🎄
Pickingupducks 