Laurie and Debbie say:

This list is for those of us fortunate enough to have people and resources to celebrate with. Even if you love the holidays, love your family, and are looking forward to the season, you still may find useful hints here.

1) To the extent possible, do as much or as little holiday stuff as you want; it’s supposed to be a celebration, not an obligation.
2) If you have enough to give to someone who has less, this is a good year for it.
3) Spend time with people you love and who are good to you.
4) Wear what you think you look terrific in; accept compliments and ignore digs about your clothes.
5) Eat what you enjoy. Desserts are not sinful, they’re just desserts.
6) If you must spend time with awful people, remind yourself three times (out loud) before you walk in the door that they are awful people. Then do something really nice for yourself the minute you can walk out the door. (If the people are not just awful but abusive, here’s some good advice. [The original link died – this is a live link to the same material.])
7) Plan your responses to inevitable comments beforehand. Try not to spend energy on what they say, because they probably aren’t going to stop. For example, if you know that your mother will overfeed you and then, just as dessert is being cleared off the table, say “You look like you’ve gained weight,” try, “That was really a fabulous meal. Excuse me, I haven’t had a minute to talk with Aunt Mabel.”
‘8)’ If the holidays make you sad, or you just hate them, you’re not alone. Participate as little as possible. They’ll be over soon.
9) If you know someone who is having a crappy holiday, take a moment to do something for them that they will enjoy.
10) If you think kids are fun, they can be a great escape from the adult follies. If kids drive you crazy, be as patient with them as you can or keep your distance: they didn’t overstimulate themselves with sugar and toys.
11) You have a right to enjoy things in your own way.
12) Be effusive about every gift you get; then be discreetly rude about the awful ones later to your friends. If they’re really awful, throw them off a bridge in the middle of the night.

If these aren’t your holidays, have a great Chinese meal and enjoy the movie!

We’ll be back in the beginning of the New Year.