Anyone ever....

Sometimes when I've felt down around the holidays and feeling kind of isolated, I've looked at them as though they are just another day, and in reality, they really are. There is a LOT of pressure to act and be a certain way around the holidays, and if you don't have the "Norman Rockwell" picture-perfect family scenario, or something "exciting" to do, it can make you feel like an outsider of sorts (at least it has for me). Losses often are magnified around holidays. Sometimes it really does help to break out of the typical mold and do something totally different, or do nothing at all, but be at peace with that and try to find some time to really nurture yourself. One Easter, my husband and I just stayed home alone, went to the zoo, came home and had a leisurely afternoon, and I cooked a nice meal for just the two of us. That was one of my favorite Easters. No extended family pressures, no obligations, it was just so easy and peaceful. I have spent other holidays alone and really enjoyed just "opting out." I don't think it's ignoring the day in a "denial" sense of the word, but just not making such a big deal out of a holiday, that helps to put it in perspective if you are really not in the mood to celebrate.

Sometimes when alone, I've done something for myself that was really indulgent, that I could never have done if others were there. Example one: Open presents from my mom with a goodwill box right there. Open each one, say, "Anyone who knows me would know I would'nt like this," put directly in goodwill box. Very enjoyable. This is not to imply she has zero good qualities, just that the gift thing got on my nerves.Ex 2: Cook an entire turkey, eat only skin, probably all the skin. It's the part I like best, there was no one else there to comment that it was a bad idea. That was VERY fun.Is there something you really like to do? Even if it's watch awful movies? Do that. Is there someone who really offended you? Cut up a pic of them. I mean really, being alone can be a tough thing sometimes, but it can also provide some interesting opportunities!

Last Christmas, I was alone. The rest of family were cruising around the Pacific (I didn't want to go as I suspected I would be babysitting mum). I got on the train and went to a beautiful beach side suburb nearby and went for a long walk - I felt much better (luckily it wasn't too hot - I live in Southern Hemisphere). I did cook myself a roast chicken with veges for lunch. In fact, after I've had lunch (even though it is 2.30pm Sunday), I think going for a walk sounds like a good idea lol.

Thanks for the ideas :) I've decided to drive to oregon and back. I'll be bringing my cousin back with me :) so I'm pretty distracted all day. I hope today goes well for everyone

That sounds lovely! I hope you had a wonderful time. Oregon is so beautiful.