How do You Set Boundaries During the Holidays?

In the December issue of Northern Connection magazine, I shared the fact that

my husband and I do something very unconventional every Christmas. Except for when we were first married, we have never spent Christmas together. Our anniversary is on December 21^st so we celebrate Christmas by going completely off-grid on that day, not even television, have fondue, exchange gifts and just be happy. Then, for Christmas, we each go home, which in turn makes our mothers happy.

I mentioned that it would be different if we had children. In that case, it would be important to us to have a Christmas morning and seeing what the big red elf had left and if he enjoyed the cookies we left for him.

But since it’s just us – we have “our day” and then do the family thing apart. Lots of people think we are crazy but lots of other people also have nontraditional traditions.

But as always, what do you think? Do you have and advice on setting boundaries or nontraditional traditions that you would like to share? Leave comments below or email me at NorthCon@consolidated.net or send me a “Letter to the Editor” at P.O Box 722 Wexford, PA 15090-0722 attn: Marianne Reid Anderson.

Should Retail Stores Be Open for Thanksgiving?

In this month’s issue of Northern Connection magazine, I started the conversation regarding the Thanksgiving controversy of retail stores being open on this family-oriented holiday.

I know we all count on emergency personnel working the holiday for the occasional mishap and oven fire. And who hasn’t counted on a last-minute run to the grocery store for a forgotten ingredient?

Shopping this weekend is critical for the economy. But by the same token is it really necessary?

Some people say yes – I know of one mom who send the dad and kids to the movies so she has the house to herself to get everything done without interruption and they love it because they come home to a feast.

But for those of us who miss our loved ones because they are called into work a Thanksgiving sale, it just seems cruel.

But as always, what do you think? Leave comments below or, email me at NorthCon@consolidated.net or send me a “Letter to the Editor” at P.O Box 722 Wexford, PA 15090-0722 attn: Marianne Reid Anderson.