Preparing to be with Family

http://inbadcompanyinc.wordpress.com/2013/12/18/packing-light

TR wrote a wonderful post with ideas on things to pack for family visits.  Whether overnight or a few hours advance preparation can make the difference between another disaster and a visit to remember happily.  I am going to add a few more suggestions that I remember from other blogs but can't give credit since I am not exactly sure who made the suggestions.

* Have an exit plan-  Decide in advance how long you plan to stay, also decide under what circumstances to leave early.  You can always revise your plan if the visit turns out enjoyable.

*Prepare statements in advance to questions you know will come - It is always amazing to me that family think it is ok to ask incredibly rude questions, a suitable comeback planned in advance can help you navigate rough waters. This one is one of my favorites from KavinCoach: "Let me get back to you with that answer."  Most people rarely get back with you.

*Remember that "No" is a complete sentence, no explanation is required.

*I remind myself that I am worth protecting.  I am no longer the person that can be bullied.

Those that go no contact are not exempt from packing for the Holiday burst of family time....sometime they need to unpack.  You know leave guilt, fear and regret behind.

Christmas is a wonderful time of year when we maintain our boundaries and treat ourselves with the same kindness that we treat others.

If you have other suggestions please add them in comments and I will include them with this post.

Judy's post http://theprojectbyjudy.wordpress.com/2013/12/24/happy-christmas-eve/ added this link about giving and receiving words:
http://holleygerth.com/what-you-can-do-with-that-gift-you-didnt-want/

May this be a beautiful and blessed Christmas Eve.