I'll have a blue Christmas....

I would like the thank the state of Kansas for sending me tips on how to "Avoid the Holiday Blues".  In an effort to pay it forward I am sharing their thoughts....along with some of my own plans to incorporate their suggestions:

What Causes Holiday Blues?

Many factors can cause the “holiday blues” - stress, fatigue, unrealistic expectations, over-commercialization, financial constraints, and the inability to be with one’s family and friends (or the inability to get away from one's family -- just kidding family of mine...or am i???). The demands of shopping, parties, family reunions, and house guests also contribute to feelings of tension (and people emailing you about having the holiday blues...that certainly can't help..). People who do not become depressed may develop other stress responses, e.g., headaches, excessive drinking (it's the holidays all year long for me, if this is the case...), over-eating (it's like they are talking just to me!!!), and difficulty sleeping. Even more people experience post-holiday let down after January 1st (these people are clearly forgetting the most exciting holiday EVER -- KANSAS DAY ON JANUARY 29TH.). This can result from disappointments during the preceding months compounded with excess fatigue and stress (and built up anticipation for KANSAS DAY).

Eliminate the Blues This Year:

Keep expectations for the holiday season manageable. Try to set realistic goals. Organize your time and prioritize the important activities. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do. Do not put your entire focus on just one day (i.e., Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day).  Remember, it is a season of holiday sentiment and activities can be spread out to lessen stress and increase enjoyment.

I will do this.  Realistic goal number 1: stop reading emails offering me "tips"   2: Prioritize by opening all of my gifts first.  3: try not to be especially happy on Christmas to avoid the let down.
 
Remember, the holiday season does not banish reasons for feeling sad or lonely.  There is room for these feelings to be present, even if the person chooses not to express them.

Just because it's Christmas doesn't mean I can't be sad if someone ate the last cookie that I wanted for myself.
 
Leave “yesteryear” in the past, and look toward the future. Life brings changes. Each season is different and can be enjoyed in its’ own way. Don’t set yourself up for comparing today with the “good ol’ days.”

Hmm. I guess no room for thoughts like "remember when I was a little kid and I woke up Christmas morning and was so excited to see that Santa had come and all the presents under the tree"  NEIN, no place for that at Christmas.

Do something for someone else. Try volunteering some time to help others.

Can I count this courteous posting?


Spend time with supportive and caring people. Reach out and make new friends, or contact someone you have not heard from for awhile.

This suggestion is silly.  I hate making new friends. I think I'll just ignore this one. 

NO WAIT -- what if I just give my current friends new names????  If I call you something different next time I see you this is what is going on.

Save time for yourself! Recharge your batteries!  Let others share in the responsibility for the holiday activities.

Yea, let others share the responsibility.   Buy yourself presents - - I'm getting a massage.