Home for the Holidays? Not Likely...

It's holiday time - YAY!!  It is time for Santa, Jolly Holiday Lights, Christmas cheer, good will towards men (and women), and (you have read from Mandi's earlier post) stress for moms.  In addition to shopping for just the right present and trying not to eat all of the yummy treats at work, I have (like many of you) the stress of traveling to see family for the holidays.  On Wisconsin...

Even when I was very young, I realized that I was extremely lucky around the holidays.  We have a very small family and everyone gathered in one location for Christmas.  My Grandma Z always came to our house and was welcome at my Grandma and Grandpa F's house for Christmas dinner.  My aunt and uncle and cousins were always there (typically after a long morning of travel) and we enjoyed spending the whole day together.  My mom always had "the best turkey ever" and there was more food then you could imagine.  Sure, there was the typical family squabbles and too much pie, but I couldn't have asked for more perfect family togetherness. 

Unfortunately, times change.  My family lives in different states and getting together over the holidays is almost impossible given school and work schedules, distance and other family obligations.  Plus, when you get married and have kids, you have a whole other family to please.  And well, my in-laws...Remember that saying "If you don't have anything nice to say..."  I am keeping my mouth shut!

So when I had A & B, my hubby and I decided to make sure that our girls always woke up in their own beds, and Santa always knows where to land.  Plus, both hubby and I grew up with this tradition.  Now, for those of you who know me, this was a little selfish on my part, as it meant we would always see my parents for Christmas (they only live 2 miles down the road).  But it does mean scheduling travel to see my in-laws. 

So Christmas afternoon, we will again make the trip to Wisconsin.  And in addition to the stress of Christmas cards, shopping, wrapping and work; I will also be doubling up on the laundry, packing and stressing out over our travels.  And don't even get me started about my in-laws' Christmas lists...

So whether this Christmas finds you on the road or snuggling by the fireplace, stay warm, keep happy thoughts in your heart, and enjoy some holiday treats.  I wish all of you the best! 

Jean Anne