By Shirley
Every end of the year, I start with good intentions and lofty plans for the holiday season which quickly are run over by the pace of the chores and responsibilities of this time of the year. The end of the school semester, the change of the weather and social commitments make the end of the year a busy and stressful time for all. So it is not uncommon for me to find myself getting ready for a holiday gathering or already at a party, and not feeling quite in the holiday spirit. It feels a little bit like one of those nightmares where you are always late and can’t find what you need. All of a sudden, you realize you are still in your pajamas, in front of strangers, while trying your best to look poised and dignified.
It sounds obvious once you have done it, but creating some time for yourself helps put your end-of-the-year challenges into perspective. Some years ago I discovered a way to de-stress, get into the spirit of the holidays and enjoy the end of the year. I imagine you have developed your own way of coping with stress, but if you haven’t, here is an idea: I try to get myself some free time when I can do all the cheesy things you can imagine - those things you really don’t want other people to know about yourself. In my case, I bake cookies while singing aloud. These are not your average, every day cookies. I try new, fancy recipes which might demand more time and attention - something special. Then, I put on my audio phones and enjoy starring in the “Shirley Show”. There might be some dancing while the cookies are baking and some more singing while decorating the cookies. I try to choose a day or time my husband isn’t around for obvious reasons, and my cats give me a wide berth as they try to understand what ails me. It really doesn’t matter if the “Shirley Show” is played just for me, since I am the only important player/viewer at that moment. It results in my getting energized and ready for my next challenge, and that is all that matters!
Wishing you Happy stress-free Holidays!