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Greetings!
Well, it's here! Like it or not, the holiday season is upon us. There is so much good this time of year - beautiful lights, parties, sharing love and cheer and, as always, the balance exists, too. Holiday stresses, crazy family dynamics, traffic, overwhelming shopping lists and chilly weather.
"The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear." (from the movie "Elf")
Watching a good Christmas movie (even though we're Jewish) is one of my family's favorite togetherness activities. There's just something about lighting a fire, making a cup of tea or hot chocolate and all sitting together for a heart-warming holiday movie. I highly recommend it!
"What do you want? You want the moon? Just say the word and I'll throw a lasso around it and pull it down." (from the movie "It's a Wonderful Life")
This is a season of "the gimmies" for kids. The impending holiday gift giving makes everyone a little crazy with wanting, yearning, and "needing" everything they see! It's lots of fun and can get some kids a little "crazy" with excitement, greed and sometimes disappointment. Help your kids to regulate themselves by balancing the crazy times with quiet times and reading what your kids need - even if it means leaving the party just a little earlier than you'd hoped.
"I realized that Christmas is...is the time to be with the people you love." (from the movie "Love Actually")
The best part of the holiday season is time with friends and family. Even through the crazies that December often brings, keep in mind what's truly important...your relationships with those you love. Stay present and enjoy your time together.
Wishing you love and balance with some additional holiday cheer this month,
Bette Alkazian, LMFT
Balanced Parenting
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