Surviving The Holidays: Christmas Edition

The holidays are a time for celebration and to get together with family.  We share a meal, catch up with each other, and enjoy the company.


Although, sometimes, the holidays can come with a lot of stress.  Whether you're the one preparing the feast, interacting with difficult family members and being overwhelmed by a room full of people, the holidays can be a little stressful.


Since Windsor just recently went in lockdown, we know some of you are stuck with what to do with your holidays but whether you are having family gathering, or you're spending it in lockdown, here are some tips to help the day go as smooth and painless as possible.


Here are some tips if you’re having a family gathering this year:


If you're the one preparing the big feast, try to prepare as many meals ahead of time.
Cooking a turkey is time-consuming.


A lot of people tend to cook the turkey and other oversized items the day of. 
They spend the majority of the day in the kitchen and not enough time enjoying company.  
If you're one of these people, try to prepare as much food as you can a day or two before and put in the oven or zap it in the microwave when it's almost time to eat.


Don't be afraid to cook and carve that turkey a day ahead and heat it the next day in the oven. It will still turn out delicious and you can enjoy your company.

Don't be afraid to accept help from others.  
If your mother-in-law pops her head in the kitchen and offers to help you, it's very easy to shoo her off and say, "I've got this."  
But giving them tasks like preparing the salad or setting the table can help meal prep go smoother.


Don't be afraid to step out. This goes for anyone. If you feel overwhelmed by the number of people in the room, whether you're celebrating at your house or someone else's, it's very easy to feel a little claustrophobic.

Don't be afraid to “hideaway” for a moment to collect yourself.


Find a place where you can get some space. Sit in an empty bedroom or bathroom or stand on the front porch to get some air, for example.  
This can give you a space to get away from the hustle and bustle inside the house.


Remember that everyone will leave.
Some family members are difficult to deal with. No matter what, they will always feel the need to put their 2 cents into everything. They'll judge how your house looks, the way you prepared the food, and what you should and shouldn’t be doing.


​The same goes for family members who make comments or argue about opposing political views or lifestyle choices.


It's up to you whether to speak up if they cross a line. You might also decide to just let it slide depending on the comment, since you only see these people once or twice a year. 


Remember that they will leave eventually and if you need to, remember to take a step back by finding a space to collect yourself.  
​
Try to keep sensitive topics under control and off the table.


Due to lockdown restrictions, some of you might not be able to see family members during this time, so here are some tips on how to stay connected during a holiday in lockdown.


Call family members and friends
Take some time during the holidays to give warm wishes to family and friends by giving them a call, or a video chat to get some face time.  This way, you can still see loved ones over the holidays while social distancing.


Socially Distant Visits or Gift Drop Off
Take a drive to see that family member or friend, but remember to keep your distance.  Have them stay on their front porch while you greet them by keeping your distance a few feet away.  
Or you can drop off their gift with a special note or card on their porch and greet them while they pick it up.  
Just remember to keep it brief and wear a mask!


Christmas in the Spring
It might sound a little weird, but some people are opting to celebrate Christmas much later, once restrictions are lifted and once it’s nicer so people can gather outdoors.  This may not be ideal when it comes to exchanging gifts since you only have 30 days to return items, but celebrations can happen anytime of the year.  And in a weird year like 2020, why not celebrate Christmas after December 25th?


The holidays are a time to laugh and spend time with family.  Whether you’re gathering together, or spending it in lockdown, the tips above should help with whatever situation you’re in.


From all of us at FABU, Happy Holidays!