As a type A personality, this week always marked the start of stress season. From making the perfect Turkey, to the right hors d'oeuvres, perfect linens, etc, etc, etc. And to top it off I am blessed with a family that might as well replace the word "meal" with "drama".
Then 2 years ago, someone told me about their in-laws. There is actually a family out there who does not stress. They do not guilt each other into showing up, or excel at one-upmanship. They simply celebrate the day and invite you to join. It is up to you whether or not to accept. Either way, they celebrate.
So I tried it. "I'm cooking dinner at my house. You're welcome to join us." That was it. It was freeing. No drama. Everyone is doing want they want. Everyone is happy. I am thankful for my happy family.
And about that Turkey? Well, think of it this way. The worst case scenario is that I will have a total meal disaster and have to order pizza. I am thankful that no matter what, we will not go hungry this day. Or any day this week.
And my house will not be perfect. I will probably have dust somewhere, or forget to perform some crucial act like refinishing the floors. But my house will be warm and safe. I am thankful for that.
And if someone teases me because my linens don't match, I will laugh and be thankful that my mom is still around to help me celebrate this special day.
Happy Thanksgiving.
I hope you laugh today.
Yay for freedom from high stress. You've got the right attitude - holidays are for celebrating, not giving ourselves coronaries. ;D This was our first Thanksgiving in this home, and I was truly wondering if the oven would do its glitch thing on the turkey and we'd be last-minute trooping out together to Cracker Barrel. lol!~! But it worked out just fine and we had a very nice feast together with mis-matched linen and unopened moving boxes (3 months later) still in the corners here and there. :D
ReplyDeleteFunny how it all works out fine, with or without the stress! And what a great memory you created in your new home. That's really something to be thankful for! Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment. You made my day.
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