Tag Archives: Christmas
Shared Joy
This year the last day of Chanukah falls on Christmas Eve, reminding us of the unique connection many inter-faith families share. And for those of us who observe only one of the holidays, it’s nice to see how our friends are enjoying their special parties. Getting together with family enhances the combination of fun, warmth, good food and beautiful decorations – whatever event you’re celebrating. And studies have shown that when families join together to practice their customs and rituals, there’s a positive effect on the children. They’re more likely … Continue reading
Posted in extended family, parenting kids, well-being, your self
Tagged celebration, Chanukah, children, Christmas, customs, Eve, family, friends, Hanukkah, holidays, identity, inter-faith, new years, party, relationships, rituals
Leave a comment
Avoiding Holiday Family Meltdowns
With the holidays just around the corner – Chanukah begins next week, Christmas and Kwanzaa the week after – are you planning to spend some time celebrating with relatives? Now is the time to take a look at your family dynamics and plan ahead to avoid a meltdown during your get together. Often present-day arguments reflect childhood conflicts over power, competition or favoritism. In today’s environment, politics, too, can cause a serious disruption in family harmony. If your family has a history of dwelling on unfinished business or expressions of … Continue reading
Posted in adult children, extended family, stress, well-being, your self
Tagged Chanukah, Christmas, communication, connections, dynamics, family, gratitude, holidays, Kwanzaa, meltdown, pressure, relationships, relatives, stress, tension, troublemaker
Leave a comment
3 Holiday Survival Tips
Norman Rockwell didn’t have the picture quite right. Does any family actually look like this, especially in December? The holiday season is packed full of high expectations. And Andy Williams’ Christmas hit, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” makes it impossible to not be disappointed. The holidays can be stressful and chaotic – making your home look festive, not sure about what gifts to buy, the hassle of traveling to visit family, all the cooking and baking. Here are some common sense tips – why don’t you see … Continue reading
Posted in extended family, stress, well-being, your self
Tagged Andy Williams, blessings, Christmas, expectations, family, gift giving, holiday season, holiday spirit, Norman Rockwell, stress
Leave a comment
Celebrate Chanukah with Traditional Foods and Less Stress
Now that Chanukah is in full swing, I’ve been enjoying the holiday with family and friends. And what is a celebration without the traditional foods – potato pancakes (latkes), donuts (sofganiot) and chocolate coins (gelt). Food has always been an important part of family rituals – sometimes the scents alone can bring back vivid memories of shared holidays. And it can transcend generations: frying latkes reminds me of watching my mother make them for us as kids, making dozens for my own children, and now preparing them to take to … Continue reading
Posted in extended family, stress, your self
Tagged celebration, Chanukah, Christmas, donuts, dysfunctional family relationships, expectations, family, gelt, Hanukkah, holiday, latkes, limits, meal, potato pancakes, relatives, sofganiot, stress, tension, triggers
2 Comments
