I watched her Christmas show many years ago (why I don’t know). It was, in my humble opinion, quite laughable. This perfection that she portrays puts the reality of relatives, budgets, and the work of it all completely out perspective.
If you enjoy cooking, cook. If you don’t do some simple things that will allow you and everyone else to just relax. The pressure to see everyone can also lead to guilt but give yourself the permission to just stay home if you want to. If you don’t have family around and may feel lonely one the best ways to lift your spirits and get into the holiday mood is to help others. Help out at one of the local charities is a wonderful way celebrate the true christmas feeling of giving.
Traditions are great but situations change. My wife Sarah and I loved having a elaborate fondu on Christmas eve. We were excited to include our children in this cool tradition and delicious food. What a disaster! It was so much work and needless to say kids and flames don’t mesh! The next year we simplified big time! Home made but pre made tortiere with a great salad was the new tradition that allowed us to relax and have room for some treats later on.
So this Christmas do not have a Martha Stewart Christmas, have your own imperfect Christmas. Plan ahead, drink water, don’t talk politics and focus on activities that give you the best emotional return. Remember even Martha’s life is far from perfect.
Yours in Health,
Dr. D
