Does anyone else go into shutdown mode as the holiday season starts?
This is typically the period when I take the most time off of work, but it is also the period when I am the least relaxed. I’m stressed because of a multitude of travel plans and/or company, logistics issues, Christmas gift exchanges, and making sure everyone in both of my families is getting adequate “face” time. Just once, I would like to have a quiet four days of Thanksgiving break, where I eat an intimate dinner, followed by spending the day reading books, walking the dog in the cool autumn air, and playing a good video game.
Don’t get me wrong–there’s a great deal of warmth in extended family gatherings. There’s a nice sense of reconnection and belonging that is hard to find elsewhere. However, now that I have a child, I find that my alone time is both precious and scarce. I need some time during the holidays to recharge my batteries, but being everything to everyone takes precedence.
I suppose that’s my real issue. My own ingrained anxiety and borderline OCD won’t allow me to let go enough to just enjoy the time as it comes. That’s my prayer for the season: I want to enjoy the moments I have with those I love and let the details take care of themselves. I don’t have to plan every aspect, and I don’t have to be in control of every little item. I need to be thankful for what I have and always remember that there are those who are not as fortunate.
The only real solution is a Thanksgiving day LAN party. However since that is highly unlikely to happen due to family, we need to make a posthumous Thanksgiving LAN party. We start at noon with a huge potluck feast. Everyone sits down to eat at a big table ala ye olde kingly days, and then at about 1 we go game and pass gas for the next 24 hours. Pure bliss.
Omg, I’m soo in. Let’s plan that for next year and I’ll bring my breasts!
I was talking turkey, you sickos.
Turkey or not, I’d be pleased either way.
I look forward to fragging you soon.