It's beginning to look a lot like....


...Christmas! We (well mostly the kids) decorated the house for Christmas. I had to go to work so my teenager took charge of the decorating while delegating some of the work to my younger child. It's the one chore those two do that actually puts a smile on their faces. I couldn't help but be happy as well, because when my kids are happy I am happy.

I remember that child-like excitement for Christmas and how it felt like it would never arrive. As I got older (before I had kids) I never decorated and didn't really ever get into the 'spirit'. The holidays were more of a somber time for me. I think the holiday season can be stressful for adults--who are trying to make everything perfect--and as a result, it never seems to be as much fun for the grown folks.

Even after my children were born I can remember traveling to family gatherings that just ended with watching loved ones be stressed and sensitive. Combine this with being in close proximity to a larger number of people and you have hurt feelings and many upset people. It was for this reason that I started doing my own little family tradition. Instead of traveling to visit family, I choose to stay in my own home and make my own traditions.

As a result, I now love Christmas. It's the perfect time to spend time with my favorite people, my kids, while indulging them in some of their most wanted items. I cook yummy food, set out great snacks, and we watch movies like "A Christmas Story" while stuffing our faces and enjoying our gifts.

As we enter into another holiday season, remember what the holidays should really be about: spending time with the ones you love. Don't get stressed out trying to make everything perfect. Your kids, and others who love you, will be perfectly happy with your presence.

-H.A.

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