The holidays are supposed to be filled with peace, love, fun,
and family traditions. At least that’s
what I read in magazines and peoples’ Facebook statuses. Homes are supposed to have perfect trees, the
aroma of freshly baked cookies, and stockings hung with care in hopes that St.
Nick soon will be there.
But let’s get real here.
Not all families are worthy of a made for TV movie and that’s exactly
why I’m venting, I mean writing, today.
Let’s face it; there are more dysfunctional families akin to the Parkers
in A Christmas Story or the Griswolds
in Christmas Vacation than we all
care to admit. Chances are many of our
own families could probably give them a run for the money on any given day.
I think it is
important for all to realize the following:
·
The holidays aren't about mauling people on
Black Friday to get a good deal. Guess
what? You can shop online in your
pajamas and get the same deals.
·
As far as presents go, don’t ask what someone
wants if you have no intention of buying anything on their list. Always defer to the parents. If they say their kid is saving for something
big, help the kid out and give them a gift card to help them reach his/her
goal.
·
No one wants to read status update after status
update about your inflated happiness (and on the flip side, misery) during the
holidays. Did you know that it has been
documented that over posting about your happiness (or misery) is a way of over
compensating for what your life lacks?
Yep, true story. That being
said, please post realistic updates. If
your great grandma nearly caught the house on fire, post about it. If your sweet nephew ran around in a tutu
playing with Barbie, post about it. Post
about the things that made the moment memorable. Be real.
Be honest.
·
Warning: This is a hard one. Not all families get along. And you know what, that’s okay. Cherish those you want to spend time with and
don’t worry about the others. That’s
bound to upset those that want everyone all together, but seriously, if it doesn't matter the other 364 days of the year, does it really matter on
Christmas? Take some advice from Cindy Lou Lou
Who of Grinch fame, “I don't need anything more for Christmas than this right
here: my family.” Real family is
comprised of those that are those that are there for you all 365 days.
·
And last
but not least, green bean casserole is gross.
Do you have advice for your fellow holiday revelers?
