The holidays can be a hectic time of year, especially for those who have children. Buying the list of electronic devices your teenager hands you or trying to figure out what exactly the writing of a four old Christmas list to Santa really is, very much describes the challenges parents face these days. Not to mention, preparing Christmas dinner, planning whose house you’ll dropping by to visit and what day, to still finding the perfect gifts for your spouse, parents, siblings, extended family and friends. 

Growing up, my Christmases were much simpler and blissful, waking up to a white blanket of snow and beautifully wrapped presents under the tree. We were allowed to open one present on Christmas Eve night. We were so excited in anticipation of Christmas morning, it ended in many sleepless nights. We knew our presents didn’t come from Santa by the age of 7 or so, but it was still a magical time. For the parents, it was quite a different view I imagine. Trying to hide our gifts and wrap them before the big day was a daunting task, especially when we got older. Christmases past are still nothing like they are today though.

From the electronic gadgets, to the latest toys, the video games with the most amazing graphics and our newest cell phones we can’t live without, Christmas is all together a whole new ballgame. The advancements in technology have truly made our lives easier and more complicated. That wooden rocking horse or Christmas sweater doesn’t cut it anymore. Tablets or cell phones have become a favorite learning and playing device for our children these days. I can’t tell you how many restaurants or stores I’ve been to and children have an “electronic babysitter” within reach. But, like everything, time advances and changes come in lightning speed.

For me, Christmas has always been a big deal. I love to decorate and cook for my family and friends. Usually, Christmas dinner is celebrated at our house and is a festive event. Entertaining, is a big passion of mine, and I do it whenever I can find a reason to. Shopping before and after the holidays used to be a stressful event for me. I would usually rush down to the mall and try to buy all my gifts at the last minute, instead of planning it out weeks or even months in advance. (which by the way, I highly recommend, if you love to shop in person) The enormous swarms of crowds and long lines would literally exhaust me for the rest of that day. Now, I solely shop online and I can’t tell you enough, what a tremendous relief and joy it is. I love it! Just point, click and purchase!

After the holidays wind down, removing and storing the Christmas decorations is the next task at hand. Welcoming in the New Year, comes with regrets of things we didn’t accomplish this year and happiness of the year to come. Making our new year resolutions list and swearing off sweets and goodies to lose those extra holiday pounds, is top priority for many. All in all, the holiday season is about being together with those we love and time with our family. Even though it may be a perfect holiday mess, enjoy the “journei”.

Photo by Andy Chilton on Unsplash