Jingle my bells this Christmas

It’s hard to believe that we are in December already. No sooner did the year seem to start and in the blink of an eye it was gone. And just think, in another few short sleeps it will be Christmas.

Ahhh. Christmas, I’m just so excited about it; mistletoe, plum pudding, backyard cricket, but best of all the presents I’m going to get.

Since I have been such a good little bear (most of the time anyway, and the times I have not, I can explain), I thought I would try my hand at writing to Santa again this year to see what would happen. So far I have written to him four times, and he still hasn’t responded...  I have muttered a few choice words about that as you can imagine, but I guess I haven’t been specific enough.

This time around though I’ve been very specific and I’ve provided Santa with a somewhat extensive and comprehensive list of all the things I would like this year – my list included an Appendix A and B containing all the other stuff he didn’t give me in the previous years.

To ensure that my request does not go unnoticed this time, I have sent him multiple copies by registered mail and several nagging emails so there can be absolutely no excuse that he didn’t receive it.

Top of my list this year is a new pad…no not an iPhone or laptop, but somewhere away from the toy box where I can kick back and relax; a place to shed the fur and wander naked once in a while should I choose. Yes somewhere I can invite Matt Keyte to come and play. Most importantly though, somewhere where I can jingle my bells this Christmas and I don’t have to put up with that bitch Barbie constantly whining, harping and badgering the rest of us; telling us how insignificant we are in comparison to the marvelous universe she rules. How awe inspiring she is – not -.

To get the ball rolling I have been pawing through all the latest toy catalogues that have come through the mail, I have been on line and checked out all the latest plans, and finally I found the one just for me. It is without a doubt the most fabulous 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom multi-level home you have ever seen, and I reckon at $425.95 it a real steal. Throw in the pool and convertible Mercedes (both sold separately of course) and you have a place that even Brad and Ange would be envious of… I can see the look on their faces now should they come to visit in the New Year; not sure if the look is shear jealousy or annoyance because I’m gunna call them losers from the upper balcony that overlooks the triple bay garage as they walk up the beautifully landscaped mansion drive.

Is it wrong though that it’s pink (or as I would prefer to describe it … fuchsia), and I’m a boy bear?

I just hope the house human didn’t see my letter to Santi, otherwise there will be the usual suggestion of ‘Oh, why don’t I buy you a kit home and put it together for you on Christmas morning?’ Yeah right! It will end up like all those other home improvement projects he has started. Come Christmas morning there will be ample enthusiasm followed by swearing, cursing and cussing and nothing will have been done. And come Christmas morning next year the kit home will have been tossed to one side and used as fire wood and toothpicks throughout the year.

And of course I would still be homeless (perhaps not if by then I have ripped Barbie’s head before then, then Mr Plod would be taking care of me instead at the local jail… so no home needed and I get to wear a nice comfy pair of handcuffs).

Now given you all a little indication of what I have asked for for Christmas, I would like take this opportunity to apologise to everyone in advance about Christmas. Why? Because if Santa is late in delivering your presents; or you get none at all because there was no room left on his sled, then remember this…

It’s not my fault you were late posting your letter to the North Pole.

Apart from what I want for Christmas the festive season can be incredibly chaotic and stressful, so it’s important that we look after ourselves and avoid triggers for poor mental health. There are simple things we can do to build our resilience. We can’t necessarily avoid stressful situations altogether but it’s important to respond to what is in our control, such as limiting alcohol consumption and remembering to take some quiet time out for yourself.

To help you retain your sanity and get you through this silly season, the Mental Health Association NSW has some useful tips to keep you going.

Managing relationships at Christmas

Feelings of stress, anxiety and depression are common during the festive season. If nothing else, reassure yourself that these feelings are normal. Things you can try to reduce the amount of unpleasant feelings experienced on Christmas Day and throughout the holiday season are:

Have realistic expectations of yourself and others. Don’t expect miracles, if you and certain family members bicker all year long, you can be sure there will be tension at Christmas lunch too. Christmas isn’t a time to address long-term conflict. Try to let go of hard feelings at least for that one day, it will help you get through the holidays and my may even enjoy yourself.

Pick who you spend time with and talk to. Do things with people you feel most comfortable with. Going on a long walk with a favourite relative will help you get away and spend time with the person you would most like to.

Avoid known triggers. If politics or religion is a touchy subject, don’t discuss it. If someone else brings up the topic, use distraction and move onto another subject. If there’s a particular person you clash with, create some safe distance and sit next to someone else at lunch or dinner.

Plan fun things to do. Family members are less likely to get into arguments if they are involved in after lunch activities such as board games or a cricket match in the backyard. Plan for something to do as a group and focus on things you enjoy doing.

Take time out with friends. If you’re not used to spending all your time with the same people, it’s important to try and get a balance. You could still spend time with family but also arrange some days or nights out with your friends and give yourself and others a break. Plan ahead.

Set aside time for yourself. This can be something as simple as going for a short walk, or having a nap. Having some ‘me time’ to get away from it all will help you relax.

Look after your physical health. Getting enough sleep, keeping up your regular physical activity

routine, using relaxation techniques, and eating and drinking with moderation will help give you the stamina to get through the demands of the season.

Christmas is lonely for many—spread the cheer

People of all ages can enjoy Christmas with others, but there are many who find it to be a really lonely time. When family and friends get together it can be hard for those people who are on their own.

If you know someone who will be alone over Christmas, one of the kindest things you can do is get in touch. Even if it’s just for a chat on Christmas morning, a hello, or an invitation to have a cake in the afternoon, it can make a massive difference to their experience of the festive season.

Helping out others and doing random acts of kindness for someone will also lift your spirits if you are experienced festive stress. Consider volunteering in the days leading up to Christmas or donating to charity.

If you don’t have close family or friends to spend Christmas with, you could also consider doing a call out to other friends, or colleagues who are also not spending time with family. You’ll be surprised how many people are separated from family and friends during this time of year. Get together on Christmas Day to do something different from what you’d do with family—such as a picnic in the backyard, a day at the beach or a themed party at someone’s house. If you are alone on Christmas Day, remember that it’s just one day out of 365, and try to do something enjoyable and special just for you.

Festive stress is normal

Remember just because some things are ‘supposed’ to be fun and festive around holiday time, doesn’t mean you have to be.

Accept that the festive season is a stressful time and allow yourself to have feelings about it. Remind yourself that the feelings will not stay forever, and you have the ability to make things better. When you are feeling sad, overwhelmed or stressed, ask yourself ‘What can I do right now to feel better?’

This might involve practicing some of the tips suggested above to reduce relationship stress. It could also mean talking to someone about how you feel and sharing what the season is really like for you.

But above all else, relax and enjoy the time being you.

Anyhow’s until January 2011, may you all have a happy, safe and jolly time. Remember to play nicely with the other children and remember my motto for this Holiday Season…. ‘The more the merrier’ and you know what I mean.

Best Wishes

Theodore H. Bear