As optimistic and tolerant as I am, I must admit I am feeling a growing sense of helplessness this holiday. And I also get the feeling that I am not alone in this. For various reasons, the downside of holidays does ghost us at the most unexpected times. But even this feeling can be overcome with the magic of laughter, joy and special moments with loved ones.
Holiday blues
We’re not the Jones’s. Get that right. Its ok to be at home and not jetting off to a wonderland. Its ok that you have detoured from the resolutions, that the year is over and you still feel like you have a million things to do. Its ok. Breathe. These and a few more changes in December may leave you anxious, waking up to the sinking downside of holidays frown. Head out for a cup of coffee with an old friend and wham, the smile is back! Is this whats getting you down?
Lack of routine
Ok I get it. Why rush in the morning if there’s no school? Breakfast at lunch time is the new norm, unless there’s reason to meet up with friends. From laundry cycles to meal times and of course being thrown off with odd pick ups, drop-offs and the long awaited dentist and other appointments, there seems to be a need to plan everyday. And then accept that the plan may change! Not a bad thing when the change is a spontaneous walk in the park.
TIP: Try doing just one thing daily that grounds you as family, be it reading a book or playing a game.
Im broke! Its the holidays
Temptation is everywhere! From Black Friday sales to Cyber Monday specials, Christmas giveaways, amazing holiday camps, and the desire to just be out and about catching up with all. Thankfully Ive set aside some spend for this, but Im beginning to wonder just how much is enough?
Growing up, December was for vac work. Earning odds for pocket money so that we could enjoy a milkshake at the roadhouse or buy a little trinket was no punishment. If anything, it taught us how to manage and value our finances, and respect our parents for their hard work.
Undoubtedly the economy in SA has dipped. Entertaining the kids is becoming more difficult. Most times I succumb to their desires, be it a game of padel or soccer or even a simple outing in search for Boba. I look around me and realise these are luxuries many cannot afford and I am ever thankful I can. Even if it has burnt a hole in my pocket.
I am on the lookout for vac work for my kids though. Not only because it will ease the burden, but also because I think there are invaluable money saving lessons for my kids.
Junk Food
As much as I encourage healthy eating through the year, with good wholesome, homemade meals, December undoes all that for me. Suddenly we’re justifying fast foods, all the grub and everything else as a treat. And also because, hey, I need some time off from the kitchen!
The danger feel
With the rising crime in the community, anxiety has kicked in. Too scared to be at home, too scared to drive out at night, too scared to go to a mall, or carry cash or leave the kids at the park. Without saying, we’ve all worked hard through the year and the thought of someone helping themselves to that is so heartbreaking.
Worse yet is the anxiety of being hurt in the process.
Road trips often hold the best memories, especially if you can get the kids to enjoy the beautiful landscapes or play some car games, and not stare at their screens. Like any Mum, Im usually frantic about road safety during the festive season, which is proabably the only downside of holidays on the road.
On the bright side
Gifts, stationery, year end parties, award ceremonies and the various charity fundraisers and more add to the chaos and mayhem of ke-Dezember. But with it comes love, a family spirit and yes, I am happy to say downtime that contributes to the upside of holidays!
Theres a festive feel, a charming energy and a rewarding burst of satisfaction in December that definitely outweighs the downside of holidays. Its beautiful. Embrace the surprises and enjoy the time with your kids.
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