Keeping the Peace-on-Earth
The holidays may be the most wonderful time of the year, but they are often accompanied by a lot of stress. The burden of handling the usual day-to-day duties keep us busy enough, but the added tasks of hosting dinners for extended family, shopping for gifts, decorating the house, etc., can cause a happy husband and wife to suddenly develop short fuses.
Unless 'fight with spouse' is on your wish list, take precautions to circumvent needless bickering. There's nothing worse than losing the joy of the season by finding yourself at odds with your sweetheart. Here are a few simple ways to avoid reaching the boiling point . . .
Pick up the Slack
If you observe that your spouse has too much on his/her plate, pick up the slack. Try not to wait until he’s blowing his top or she’s in tears before you jump in and help out. Taking some of the weight off your beloved’s shoulders will lighten the burden for both of you. Offering to wash the dishes after the family meal allows your spouse a little time away from the kitchen after a day of cooking and baking. Keeping young children entertained so your hard-working partner can have a break is a most welcome respite. Why not order pizza once a week and have a family movie night? Help wrap gifts or address envelopes for the Christmas cards. Even the smallest of gestures can alleviate a great deal of stress. Lucky for me, my husband excels at jumping in and rolling up his sleeves!
Music Hath Charms
Music has been known to have a calming effect. Play holiday music throughout the house during preparations and celebrations. Music can soothe tense nerves and remind the listener to remain focused on the true Reason for the season. Singing or even dancing along to seasonal tunes keeps the atmosphere joyful.
Take a Break
It’s especially necessary to take a little break from the hustle and bustle when stress is heightened. Just a short break away from all the seasonal chaos can bring much-needed perspective. Take a short walk together and breath in a little crisp, winter air to rejuvenate your spirits.
Laugh!
Did you ever notice that when tension is high, laughter is low? When you sense that your spouse is getting overwhelmed, encourage laughter. Keep the mood light as much as possible. Reminisce over a humorous holiday memory or watch a comedy together after supper. Order Chinese food and invite those friends over who make you laugh until you cry!
Quiet Time
Too much of the holidays are spent filling every waking moment with activity. Take a few evenings to sit quietly in the living room gazing at the Christmas tree with holiday music playing softly in the background. A little down-time can do a lot toward restoring a weary soul.
Sweet Surprises
From time to time, surprise your spouse. A favorite cup of coffee or plate of cookies, a foot rub, or a long soak in a bubble-bath are simple ways to remind your beloved that his/her happiness is all you want for Christmas. A fire kindled in the hearth, a glance through the family photo album, or a night-time drive to see the local holiday lights are small ways to catch your breath and make sweet memories during busy times.
The seasonal decorations are not the only thing that should sparkle! Take the time and make the effort to keep the peace with your Sweetheart. It’ll make your holidays merry and bright!
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“Kindness is love with workboots on.”
~ Unknown