Christmas brings up a roller coaster of different emotions for me. I
love getting together with my family, near and far. I love the food! I
love decorations and making things and having apple cider and peppermint
bark. I love eating waaaay too much and sleeping for ages. I love
focusing on what's really important, like each other.
But I hate the materialism. Everyone spends so much time and energy and money on elaborate gifts, some thoughtful and sweet, others unnecessary and useless. I grew up in a family that overdid it for Christmas. We always had a huge pile of presents under the tree, even if it meant months of my dad working overtime, struggling to get caught up from the financial hole they had fallen into once again. I hate that we always receive so much more than we can give. I hate that I always seem to be broke during the holidays, which is probably because I work for tips, and mid-November through New Years is slow in every restaurant. I know that everyone means well and loves to give things but I just wish that it wasn't such a big part of our lives. It stresses me out. I'd like to start a few new traditions. This year we aren't the only ones without extra money to spend, and a few of us have pulled together for certain people. I think that has the potential to be a new tradition, everyone working together to get each person something better, nicer, something that's just more. Another quickly growing tradition for Jonathan and I is giving homemade gifts and cards instead of store bought ones. It is time consuming, and frankly there is a fine line between heartfelt and trashy. This year we have a few rabbits to offer, we know a few people that have been waiting patiently to try one all year. 'Tis the season.
But I hate the materialism. Everyone spends so much time and energy and money on elaborate gifts, some thoughtful and sweet, others unnecessary and useless. I grew up in a family that overdid it for Christmas. We always had a huge pile of presents under the tree, even if it meant months of my dad working overtime, struggling to get caught up from the financial hole they had fallen into once again. I hate that we always receive so much more than we can give. I hate that I always seem to be broke during the holidays, which is probably because I work for tips, and mid-November through New Years is slow in every restaurant. I know that everyone means well and loves to give things but I just wish that it wasn't such a big part of our lives. It stresses me out. I'd like to start a few new traditions. This year we aren't the only ones without extra money to spend, and a few of us have pulled together for certain people. I think that has the potential to be a new tradition, everyone working together to get each person something better, nicer, something that's just more. Another quickly growing tradition for Jonathan and I is giving homemade gifts and cards instead of store bought ones. It is time consuming, and frankly there is a fine line between heartfelt and trashy. This year we have a few rabbits to offer, we know a few people that have been waiting patiently to try one all year. 'Tis the season.
Start your own traditions.
Until next time,
Angela Kelly
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| the beautiful ornament Penny gave us, our first ornament as a couple! |
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