From One Parent to Another

Have you started your holiday shopping yet? I'm woefully behind schedule and the only excuse I have sounds like a toddler speaking: I don't want to! I don't want to spend the money, face the lines, or get caught up in the stress of waiting outside Best Buy at 4 AM to get the Nintendo Wii my 13-year-old craves. I don't want more things in my house that the girls
forget to put away. And I'd like my family to remember that Christmas is about giving.
Oh. I guess that means I'd better get my act together. Because the truth is, one of my favorite parts of the holiday is getting my girls the things they wish for (within reason, of course). I'd rather watch them open their presents on Christmas morning than receive any of my own. I enjoy their surprise and delight, that doesn't seem to dissipate no matter what they've come to think about Santa. So, I guess I've just given myself a little holiday shopping pep talk. I have to go now. The lines at the stores are calling me.

Well, I survived the shopping, and everyone was fairly satisfied with the results. We hosted five get togethers, including Christmas dinner, and everyone had a great time. We still have leftovers, among them far too many cookies. All in all, a wonderful, holiday.

I wish for you a peaceful remainder to your holiday and a Happy New Year. Though we parents often think of September and back to school as the start of a new year, the official beginning, Jan. 1, offers us a unique opportunity for reflection. Parents and children can talk about what went well, what you would have liked to do better, and what you're thankful for. And then together, you can make plans for the new year. In between all the partying and clearing away the holiday remains, set aside quiet time together. All too soon your post-holiday schedule will take over, so enjoy these moments while you can.