HOLIDAYS MEAN DIFFERENT THINGS TO DIFFERENT PEOPLE

Our great/grandchildren

Here are some quick thoughts about the upcoming holidays. In this spirit we present these ideas……
FOR A MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF PLEASURE AND A MINIMUM AMOUNT OF STRESS 

• Family is the most important part of the holiday season!
• Gifts and material things are for the moment, but caring is lasting.
• Children are often the focus of our giving, but caring for ourselves, our children, our family and friends is the best gift we can give. 

PLAN AHEAD  

• Be aware of your energy, money and stamina and spread them out through the holidays so that you have some of each left.
• Cook ahead of time and freeze.
• Don’t shop when you are tired: this helps cut down on impulse buying.
• Shop by phone, internet or catalog or make your own gifts at home.

DON’T OVERDO MATERIAL THINGS

• Discuss the original meaning of the holiday with your great/grandchildren.
• Let your great/grandchildren know what your values are so that their expectations are real.
• Gift giving can be a bottomless pit.  Make a list and then cut that in half.
• Emphasize the importance of people and not things.
• Don’t equate material gifts with love.

KEEP THINGS SAFE

• Check your tree, lights and wiring
• Practice extra precaution when cooking or making crafts

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

• Understand that holidays are a stressful time because of the many unusual demands, especially if you are away from your family or if you have large family gatherings.
• Eat properly and rest – the temptation is to eat fast foods and snacks.
• Treat yourself well and your children will be well.  Accidents happen more easily when you are tired or frustrated.
• Don’t try to be a super great/grandparent.  If you do half of what you planned, you’re probably doing too much.

GIVE AGE APPROPRIATE AND FUN GIFTS

• If gifts are inappropriate, your great/grandchildren may get frustrated and you may get angry because h/she does not meet your expectations.
• A rule of thumb is:  The younger the child, the bigger the toy parts
• “Educational” toys may be “un-educational” if they are not enjoyable.
• Buy and make things that can be used in various, imaginative ways 
• Buy and make safe and sturdy toys http://www.cpsc.gov/

Have a very healthy, safe, fun and peaceful holiday!

Until next year, 

HO HO HO,

Laurie & June

P.S. WE ARE SORRY FOR ANY ADVERTISING LINKS...WE HAVEN'T QUITE LEARNED HOW TO GET RID OF THEM.