The months of November and December are a very hectic season for our family. I realize this is true for the majority of families since the holidays are always a busy time, but our family also has a couple of extra celebrations. You see, both of my children and my husband all have birthdays in December – in a span of three days – the week before Christmas. To say that the holiday season, particularly December, presents scheduling issues for our family is an understatement.
First, we have to get through November and Thanksgiving. Our November calendar typically fills up with various blogging events, as there are many holiday happenings the local theme parks and attractions want to share with families. It’s super fun, but means every weekend has something going on. We definitely have to choose wisely, since it can become overwhelming.
Then December comes and it seems like it goes by in a flash. We usually have a birthday party for the kids (luckily I can still combine both birthdays into one party), so we spend quite a bit of time planning and preparing for the party. There’s also Christmas shopping to do, along with every day life and obligations (school, work, housework, etc.). We pretty much spend the first three weeks of December running around. But, we do it together.
That’s the thing about this hectic holiday season. Even though we have a lot going on, we’re together. We attend events as a family, we plan, shop, and prepare for the birthday party together, and even do some Christmas shopping together. All that time – even the time in the car and in stores – is time for us to talk, laugh, reminisce and just hang out. Sure, there are moments of frustration or impatience, but overall, we have fun. There’s just no other way for us to get through it. Humor is a part of who we are as a family, so naturally, laughter is how we keep it together. I’m just lucky to have a family that keeps me laughing and that laughs along with me.
How do you keep the humor going during the hectic holiday season?
Disclosure: This story is sponsored by Hallmark through their Life is a Special Occasion campaign. As always, all stories and opinions are my own. To receive special offers and discounts from Hallmark, sign up for their e-newsletter!
Photo © modernmami
We have a similar situation in our house…all of our birthdays fall between Thanksgiving and Christmas. It’s enough to make everyone feel completely exhausted by the time Christmas rolls around.
One thing I’ve started doing is making sure to complete all of my Christmas shopping during the month of November. That way, December can really be all about enjoying the holidays and spending quality time with the loved ones. Really helps to make it feel less crazy. Oh, and doing Christmas shopping online is a lifesaver, too!
Great ideas! I always mean to, but somehow end up shopping and planning a birthday party all at the same time. Next year?
My 3 oldest are November, December and January babies (what I thinking, right?) so, my youngest is all like…HAH!…I get to have a birthday all to myself 😉 Happy Thanksgiving, my friend!
I do fear they won’t want to share birthdays so close to each other when they get older. For now, it’s great!