Kath12

I too am very glad this holiday is over. Too many family problems so we were not able to be all together. I had three of my granddaughters overnight Christmas night so I took advantage of the help and we took the tree and decorations down and put away. My oldest granddaughter likes to organize things so I just let her put the ornaments away for me. She is such a delight to have around. She will be 14 Jan 25. Anyway my sewing room is now usable and I can't wait to get back in the groove and work on my many projects.

Quilt-Till-U-Wilt

Always glad when it's over. I enjoy Christmas Eve when my family comes but it's days of work for me and it's over in one evening. Tree comes down new Years Day or the day after. Going to try to cut back on everything that takes up my time in the new year and spend a lot of time sewing.

Claddaughquilting

So sorry for your loss. My mom took sick on the 17th and passed away on the 20th. I understand how you are feeling. My family had a very quiet Christmas. My father went with my siblings to where they live for Christmas to get away for awhile. My parents were together for 67 years, raised 5 children, and had 9 grandchildren. For my two sisters and I who live in Montreal, it was our first Christmas without our parents. I love Christmas. Not because of presents, but because I usually see my whole family and we get to spend time together. I love Christmas lights, and carols....I feel no pressure at Christmas from anyone. I think I must be very lucky. Losing my mom at Christmas will not make me hate Christmas either, just give me something else to be thankful for.

Kathy Osterby

I totally agree and am so glad its over! No tree or any other decorations. Went to DS and GKs kept their noses in Kindles etc whole time. Hopefully I'll be with sisters in Mt by this time next year.

Mad Mimm

I do not agree. We had a very nice Christmas - free from hustle, bustle, and feeling over-obligated and stressed. I baked our annual cookies on the 24th and mid-way through my oven died. My husband and I looked at each other, laughed and said, "At least we are not expecting 15 people for dinner!" We enjoyed a pared down holiday this year, buying only a few gifts for our two kids. I was worried my son would be disappointed since last year (the first Christmas after his Grandma passed away) we went a little overboard in the present department. He did not even notice the reduction - was just as happy with the fewer gifts he received and so were we.

We ended up cooking our dinner on our barbecue grill in 40 degree weather (mom's electric skillet saved us on the breakfast end of the meal). It was a great way to spend the day and for the record, you CAN cook potatoes au gratin on the grill!!! They came out delicious! We had our cookies for dessert.

For my family, this Christmas was done on a simple scale, within budget, and without stress. My husband and I focused on enjoying time with each other and our two kids and celebrated just the way we like it. I did miss seeing other family members (no one lives close to us) but I have no complaints about how I spent my holiday.

For those of you who lost loved ones this season, I offer my deepest condolences. The holidays are one of those times when memories of loved ones who have left us are fresh and we miss them the most. I have loved ones that I missed dearly this time of year, but I like to think they are with us in spirit and celebrating right beside us.

Christmas should not be a stress-fest and an endless series of sacrifices and obligations. I hope that those of you who dread next year have the opportunity to relax and enjoy the holidays of 2012.

carolynjo

Yep! Glad it's over. Did not have either child (adult) at home this year. Grandchildren live too far away to visit. Didn't hear from 3 of them. Best friend of 36 years died on Monday before Christmas. Just need to dig a hole, pull the dirt in over me and hibernatefor a few days. Better next year, I hope.

klutzyquilter

... KISS ... "keep it simple seniors" .... the holidays may not be the same as they once were but then, neither are we ... I am learning to just relax and enjoy what I can. Happy New Year to all

tedytrser

So sorry for your loss. Prayers sent up

rj.neihart

It's almost over for us. My son is in Quatar and coming home for a week. Then he will return and stay until the military says it's time to return to U.S. I have all decorations still in place after daughter and son-in-law came to enjoy the giant meal with us. This year, with so much to do, I skipped making the fudge. Which cut out a lot of time in the kitchen. My wonderful hubby-to-be helped with all decorating and cooking....even wrapped a few gifts! I can only hope this help stays with us after we marry!

urgodschild2

I am truly sorry for all of you who have lost someone you love at this time of year. Christmas has always meant a time with family so it is a hard thing when one member is missing. Since my kids are all grown up, Christmas has never been the same. My youngest lives in Australia with 3 of my GK who are still little. I miss them but skyping works for us. My tree was taken down yesterday and I don't miss it. Gives me more room in my home.