(Photo taken inside Rolf's years ago)
I'm trying to remind myself that this is the most wonderful time of the year. Usually I don't need that reminder! But the last few days, I find myself trying to gear up for the holiday next week, instead of bubbling over with excitement. I don't like this little nagging dread, not one bit.
I think Peter's feeling it, too. (If anyone ever asked for my relationship advice - which they never do! - I would say that you can't both be feeling down at the same time. Easier said than done!).
We are very lucky to live near both our families, but it means that we run around a lot between different houses over Christmas. I hesitate to go further, since I know many people aren't able to see all of their families over the holidays, but...it's a lot! Lots of time in the car, lots of chit-chat, lots of packing and re-packing.
Anyways, enough with the grumpiness! After tomorrow, I am on vacation for ten glorious days. There will be a fancy dinner at a great looking new-to-us spot, lots of delicious wine, skiing, and to top it all off, a family wedding on New Years Day! So much to look forward to.
I'm wishing you all a very happy, joyful, relaxing holiday. Let's gear up for this together!
Oh I know what you mean! We live in the same town as Matt's fam & my parents live 2 hours away so we have to divide our time up too. It does get exhausting... Unfortunately (and luckily?) my work schedule interferes with the holidays so we rotate. Last year we did Christmas day with my family, so this year it's with Matt's family. My parents actually came .up this past Saturday & we did our "Christmas" with them then. So now we don't have to rush around & although I'll miss my family on Christmas day, I'm glad that we made a special day (last Sat) for us to celebrate & we'll do Christmas with them next year. Plus I actually really love my in-laws & know it'll be a special time. :)
ReplyDeleteEvery family is different! They say the holidays are stressful! But I hope you & Peter get into the spirit once you things get going.
Merry Christmas (& sorry for the novel!)
I totally, totally sympathize. For me I think it's the stress of an upcoming family visit along with the knowledge that we have a long January and February ahead of us.
ReplyDeleteGood luck - serenity now! - heading into this holiday :)
There is so much to look forward to but I know just what you're talking about. Every other year I go home to NY where my family is so big we are always driving around to different houses (ours is too small to host everyone). This year I'm heading to CT which is a much smaller deal and I can't tell you how much I'm looking forward to it. There is nothing better than a relaxing holiday.
ReplyDeleteBut also, there's something special about being with so many people who you care about.
Happy Holidays!
Melissa, that sounds like a great system! It certainly does help a great deal when you love both sides of your family.
ReplyDeleteKate, I think you nailed it. I always get a little sad just after New Years, dreading the winter months ahead.
Anna, your Christmas in Connecticut sounds wonderful! And you're so right - there IS something very special about being with so many people you care about.