"Mommy! I want this! No wait, I want this!"
"So do you have a girlfriend/boyfriend this year?"
"If I have to deal with these Christmas tree lights ONE MORE TIME.."
We have all been there: the holiday madness! That special time of year where the birds are chirping, the smell of turkey and ham is in the air, and when you don't hear kids screaming in the aisle at Target, you can usually faintly hear Christmas music.
The holidays are supposed to be about family and loved ones and appreciating everything you have in your life. Instead, it's been commercialized to the point that the only thing that matters is getting that blasted singing Elmo doll for your niece or fighting a woman in Walmart over the last Adele CD.
Though, if anyone sees me wrestling someone for the new Adele CD, just ignore me. [Cough, cough.]
Whether you're the one slaving over the food, gift shopping at the mall, or you're needing an extra glass of eggnog to get those Christmas lights to work, here are things to remember during the hectic holiday season.
Things could always be worse! Picture it: you put the turkey in the oven to cook. You're stressed to the max and you suddenly remember that you need to get the pumpkin pie out to thaw (if it's store bought: no one will judge you!). With that being remembered though, you actually forget to turn on the oven for the turkey! After about an hour and you don't smell the delicious bird, you realize your mistake and it takes all your strength not to pour yourself a glass of wine and say, "Nope. Done."
Family should always come first. Whether it's your uncle who is very similar to Frank from "Everybody Loves Raymond," or your cousin who loves to delve in your personal life, you should be happy that they're in your life at all. Some people can't say that. (Sorry for the depressing mention! [Holiday hugs]) Even if it's just your friends, be glad with who you have in your life. They might be annoying at times, but the holidays are about taking notice of all the blessings you have in your life. So go hug your uncle and enjoy the confused look on his face, and entertain your cousin with hilarious and embarrassing stories from the past year.
If all else fails, appreciate the fact that the year's almost over! Whoo! So if you experienced a bad breakup this past year [cough cough], lost your job, or lost friends, realize that it's about to be a new year! A fresh start! No, I'm not talking about telling yourself you're going to go to the gym every week next year (for those who stuck to that by the way, kudos). I'm talking about taking chances and being risky! If there's a guy/girl you like, go talk to them (I really should practice what I preach, huh). If you've been wanting to do something you've been too afraid to do, go do it! Don't fill up another year with "what if's." As Ellie said from "Up:" Adventure is out there!
I hope I helped you, in some way, to reduce your stress somewhat this holiday season! Just focus more on what's really important in life, rather than materialistic things. I hope everyone has safe travels and complete happiness!
Happy Holidays!
