Let me start off by saying I am the poster child for blended families. Both of my parents remarried when I was young, causing my family to quadruple. But now that I’m newly married, it’s officially out of control. I’ve been stressing out about how we’re going to see all 5 sides of the family during our first holiday season as a married couple. I think I’ve got it figured it out:
- Alternate holidays: Thanksgiving and Christmas are major family holidays. A way to eliminate the pressure of choosing which side to spend the holidays with, is to alternate holidays. For example: My husband and I have decided to spend Thanksgiving with my side of the family (all 3 sides), and Christmas with his side of the family (both his mom & dad side). Only down side about this plan, is we’ll spend a small amount of time in the car traveling from one house to the next. However, something has to be compromised, and at least we’ll see all of our loved ones.
- Enjoy a holiday breakfast: Much emphasis is put on the holiday dinner, as it should be, because who doesn’t need an excuse to inhale jerk turkey and play Spades with the family? However, let’s not forget the holiday is ALL day. If you plan to have dinner with your in-laws, why not enjoy a big breakfast with your immediate family? This plan allows you to see both sides of the family, and everyone is happy.
- Plan a holiday dinner after Thanksgiving, but before New Year’s Eve. So you may have missed out on Thanksgiving dinner with your family. Guess what? The holiday season isn’t over. Who says you HAVE to have dinner on the actual holiday? Create your own tradition.
- Host a holiday dinner at your home. Want to see everybody for the holiday? Invite them all to your house. Simple, right?
BMWK Did I miss something? How have you and your spouse navigated the holidays?