Christmas time is approaching quickly. While this merry holiday is usually something to look forward to, some people dread the thought of having to take part in certain Christmas activities. Here are some of the not-so-merry things we have to go through during the holiday season:
1. Eggnog.
Eggnog--what even is it? This traditional Christmas drink may get some in the holiday spirit, but others find it downright nasty. I don't know what it is about eggnog that makes it so appealing. Maybe it's the abnormally thick, milky consistency? Either way, people should not have to drink this milky goo at holiday parties--or even be around it.
2. Christmas card pictures.
Trying to capture that perfect holiday card photo can be quite the process. We've all experienced it--Mom makes you try about 40 different poses in 50 different locations, just to find out that she doesn't like a single one. On top of that, you're probably wearing matching Christmas costumes or ugly Christmas sweaters because Mom thinks it will look cute. Mom always knows best... right?
3. Christmas music.
I'm not going to lie, I do love some good Christmas tunes. However, when they start playing them on Thanksgiving, they start to get a little old by the time Christmas rolls around. So old, in fact, that I might start wearing headphones around my family holiday parties. I'm sorry Michael Buble, but it's kind of hard for me to "Have a Merry Little Christmas" when all I hear is your voice 24/7.
4. Putting the star on the tree.
Decorating the Christmas tree is one of my favorite holiday activities. Hanging out with the family, putting the ornaments up, hanging the tinsel... It's a good time. However, when it comes time to place the star upon the top of the tree, the atmosphere starts to change. Nerves and tensions rise as Dad climbs the shaky step latter. With each step up, another meticulously placed ornament falls to the ground and lands with a shattering crash. I don't think it's humanly possible to get that star up there without knocking down all of your previous hard work.
5. Having to buy gifts for literally everyone.
Nothing like the sweet sound of your bank account slowly dwindling down to the last dollar. Every year I feel the need to buy presents for almost everyone I know--wouldn't want to leave anyone out, right? By the time I find a gift that suits each of my family members and friends, my bank account is crying. I'm not going to lie, it does feel great to give to others. However, nothing grinds my gears more than when you spend over $20 on someone and they don't even get you something in return. My bank account isn't the only thing hurting after that.
6. Wrapping Presents
In my opinion, wrapping presents is one of the most irrelevant Christmas traditions. Not only do you have to spend money on a gift, but you also have to spend money on pretty paper to wrap the gift in. Then, you have to take the time out of your day to wrap the gift. It takes me about 15 minutes to wrap a single gift, and it still looks like a 3rd grader did it. And, after all that, you just watch someone tear into you hard work.
Despite these holiday hassles, Christmas is still one of my favorite times of the year. You get to spend time with family, friends, and temporarily forget about all of your stresses. It truly is a merry time of year (even if you're forced to drink an eggnog or two).
