Did you notice that the Christmas decorations went up on Halloween? Did a chill run down your spine? The holiday season seems to be getting longer and shorter. Yes, shorter. Look at the expectations this season puts on you. Fifty-five days is not nearly enough to achieve Countess perfection MarthaRachelNigelaPaula FoodNetwork. I’m not sure I live up to Real Simple’s standards.
A lot to do! Are your letters out? Did you shop until Black Friday fell? Did you make wonderful decorations with recycled materials? Have you picked the absolutely perfect gift for everyone on your list? Do you have color-coordinated wrapping paper, labels, and ribbon? Can you tie a perfect bow?
When are you going to have your Christmas party? What are you going to serve? What will you wear to everyone else’s event? Do you know what to tip your hairdresser? What is the politically correct Christmas greeting? So many questions and so little time!
Christmas madness took over when I visited a friend on Thanksgiving. She had decided that she didn’t feel like cooking, so she ordered at her local supermarket. And then he began to obsess. It would not taste good. There would not be enough. Turkey, cranberry sauce, whole wheat muffins, roasted pumpkin, mashed potatoes, and a pumpkin pie clearly wasn’t enough for five people. We added additional garnishes: homemade cranberry sauce, candied chestnuts, fruit filling, baked onions, candied candies, baked treats, peas with fresh mushrooms, and three more cakes. Oh, and at the last minute he ran for a turkey breast, just in case.
Everything was delicious and we all had a good time, but it really got me thinking about how easy it is to get caught up in too much vacation.
So how are you going to have a peaceful vacation? Here are some simple suggestions.
1. Like Santa, make a list and double-check it. While you’re checking it out, do a little reality check. Are you buying gifts for too many people? Are you planning to spend an unrealistic amount on each one? Have you been overwhelmed with items that are impossible to find? (No, my cousin will probably NOT get that old fruit bowl this year.)
2. Only accept invitations that make you happy. If that means none, go for it! An unbreakable prior commitment is always a valid excuse. No one needs to know that the compromise can be with your sofa.
3. Wear comfortable clothing. Forever. Don’t let tight shoes or a questionable neckline spoil your fun.
4. Buy comfortable shoes. Take your wallet somewhere easy to reach but difficult for anyone else. Don’t load yourself up with too many packages.
5. Buy online. Gifts, dinners, cards, reservations, all just a click away.
6. If you must ship packages, remember that the Postal Service will now pick up packages from your home.
7. Do not bake unless you are severely depressed if you are deprived of the experience. If you bake, set limits. Never again will I have more cookie bins than can fit on a fully extended kitchen table.
8. This is for next year. Collect interesting gifts throughout the year. If you are traveling, this is a great way to have truly unique gifts. Don’t forget where you put them. Last year I gave away several precious objects that I had bought in Sicily three years ago. I’d put them in a safe place. At least they finally surfaced.
9. Simplicity is very elegant. Repeat this twenty times, then start cutting back on your plans.
10. Gift cards are a wonderful thing. Do you want to make the perfect gift? Not only are gift cards perfect, but you can also keep them in your carry-on luggage.
11. Travel light. Bring your pills, jewelry, and one-ounce containers or fluids you need. Wear something comfortable and a bit fancy so that if you lose your luggage, you are reasonably prepared.
12. Set aside time in your calendar to do absolutely nothing but take care of yourself, whether that means going to the movies, meditating, getting a massage, or just taking a nap. Go at your own pace.