Family Celebrations

Holiday celebrations can be a delight, or they can be a problem depending on the situation. For newly-married couples one big problem immediately comes with the holidays. Which family should they visit for the celebration? While they were single, they spent the holidays with their family with no problem, but now there are two families who want them to visit. Perhaps both families can visit the new couple, and this would be a good chance for the families to get to know each other. If this is not possible, it would be good if the families lived close enough to each other that the new family could visit one for the middle of the day and the other for dinner at night. If they live a distance apart, problems come up. The cost of the travel may make it difficult for the new family. Personal family situations may make it easy to decide. If one couple has six children and they will all be there for the holiday, it is easier than if that couple has no other child and would be alone. Alternating holidays may be a solution, thanksgiving with one and Christmas with the other.

Once children are involved in the holiday celebration their happiness should be the top priority. It is necessary to adjust the way you live and relate to family to make the holiday meaningful and heartwarming for the children. Avoid such high expectations that it makes it impossible to meet them. This sets you up for disappointment and resentment. Focus on making each day count while being balanced, unhurried and calm. Try to avoid becoming distracted with gifts, parties, visitors and other responsibilities. Take turns with relatives or host celebrations at your house.