multirovermultiminks
We probably all have baggage around the holidays, and I'm not referring to your suitcases! There is immense expectation that all holidays be perfect-- the right gifts, a stupendous meal or 3; happy, congenial Ward and June Cleaver families. The weight of "what should be" can get to a person.

So this year, if you can, let yourself relax. If you don't receive the perfect gift, so what? If the roast gets burned and you have to send out for pizza, so what? It's easy for me to say, since my job is very seasonal, and because of my work schedule I don't plan big holiday dinners or parties-- but so what? Just let yourself breathe. Let the kids help. Try to sluff off your mother-in-law's remarks. Count your blessings. My partner used to be in the personal service provider field, and I can tell you, from watching them interact-- nothing is more important than health. I am grateful every day that I can get my feet on the floor by myself, and get myself showered, dressed and fed.

No money? So what-- the economy WILL rebound in time. No friends? Go the the Salvation Army for dinner-- help yourself feel better by helping others. "Ask not what others can do for you, but what you can do for others," to paraphrase a famous american.

Stop feeling sorry for yourself, and just do one nice thing today for someone else. Then buy yourself some flowers, or treat yourself to 15 minutes of free browsing at your florists as your reward. You will feel even better.

Peaceful Holidays, everyone