Lower Expectations
If there is no such thing as "the perfect family," then how can there be such a thing as "the perfect family Christmas?"
- Identify disappointments that you have during the holidays.
- Realize that people will disappoint us and that most people don't change.
- Realize "family" has many definitions and shapes - accept and celebrate that which is unique about your family.
- Realize we can't be everywhere, do everything and please everyone.
Christmas and Children
_The four things children really want for Christmas:
Making time for what's important:
Create and enjoy special traditions:
- A relaxed loving time with their family.
- Realistic expectations about gifts.
- An evenly-paced holiday season.
- Reliable family traditions.
Making time for what's important:
- Set aside time with your children.
- Cut back on outside commitments.
- Simplify holiday preparations.
- Entertain less.
- Watch less TV/commercials.
- Reduce holiday travel.
Create and enjoy special traditions:
- What traditions were the most enjoyable to you as a child?
- How can you include your traditions in today's holiday celebrations?
- Talk with your children about which holiday traditions they enjoy most.
- Make December a month to scrapbook photos and other memories.
- Read the Christmas story together.
