Family and Holidays

Its the holiday season, and most of us are surrounded by family.  It can be overwhelming.  At least for me.

Many years ago, I left family in Cali to move to Ohio.  Getting away from family had its good side, and bad side.  I found I missed the memories .... the happy things that were easily remembered.   But I didn't miss the weird drama that went along with holidays.

Mom had expectations, and a standard of behavior that was difficult to maintain.  People often disappointed her, but only because she was so rigid in her expectations.

And now its a crazy year of holidays with mom in a different place, and I'm at mom's old house with my brother and his wife, and my nephew.  

Its amazing how different we all become as we grow into adulthood.  Does that mean I am becoming like Mom?  Nah, because I have my own traditions that aren't like hers.  And when it comes to holidays or celebrations, I am not conventional.

But its still easy to note the differences, and if you're like me, sometimes wish you were somewhere else.   I have been on my own, and mostly alone, since 2004.  And when I don't celebrate in conventional ways, it confuses others.

Mom lays a lot of value on things, I'd rather have experiences. Take a walk, watch the stars, listen to water tumbling over rock.

We're all different.  So if you're stuck doing some kind of celebration that doesn't feed your soul, take time out to do you!!