Well, I'm here, finally, and am getting started on my list:
() Print HHP worksheets/forms
() Update Holiday Planner with new forms
() Sort thru files
() Complete Values Worksheet with family
() Start working on typing up various recipes from 50 yo cookbook that has seen its day--Christmas gift for Mom
() Check holiday gift wrapping area set up
() Have DD start on design ideas for the holiday card
() Set up mini HHP in portable planner
() Start master gift list
One nice thing is that, after much thought, and family angst and serious hurt feelings this past summer for my daughter and I, we have decided that we will NOT be spending Christmas Eve with my SILs family, as had been the pattern since the kids were young. The cousins are just NOT getting along most of the time and since all I ask is that my DD be polite to everyone, and isn't getting that in return at all, what's the point? Now that DD is over the Santa thing, there just doesn't seem to be a reason to go--its not DH's or my idea of Christmas Eve, and DD was relieved to have a reason not to have to participate in an activity she really doesn't want to do. As a family, we've discussed that some relationships can be toxic, even if they involve extended family, and we no longer choose to be part of that on CHristmas. We'll spend Christmas Eve day and early evening with my BFF from childhood; our kids and hubbies all get along well, and see my immediate family Christmas Eve Night, and attend services. Christmas Day, we will head to DHs family, spend the nite in their town and the next day head up to one of our favorite family resorts for a few days. We can't completely avoid seeing them, but we are putting distance between us. The family values worksheet helped give us the courage to say, "why, exactly, are we putting ourselves thru this?" I was really concerned that my Mom would be upset, but she was great about it...she even encouraged us to go to Disney World!
So, hopefully, I'll make it thru the HHP this year, and my family will enjoy the holidays much more than we have in a long time!
Here's good thoughts to us all!
Berta