A lot is being added to the list and every time you think all the “need to do” things are covered, one or two things pop into your mind. Christmas cards are all addressed and ready but then you remember one or two others that didn’t get included, so the Christmas cards are once again gotten out. The list of Christmas gifts is reviewed. A loved one’s gift has not arrived yet and so the worrying begins...Will it get here in time or should a substitute gift be purchased? The gift wrapping paper is strung all over the kitchen counters and just when you think everything is going smoothly with the gift wrapping, the Scotch tape runs out. You become desperate and thoughts go towards using glue, maybe even chewed gum, just to get the last two gifts wrapped so the wrapping mess can be cleared out.

This year the traditional Christmas cookies may not get done. We worry the grandchildren will notice the usual cookies are not included in the Christmas Day menu. If the cookie list is shortened to two recipes will that be enough? Should we take the time to make the homemade cinnamon rolls or do we order the cinnamon rolls made at a local bakery? The Christmas family meal’s menu plans have been scratched out on a piece of paper. Several things have been marked out and additions made. Do we use homemade noodles or purchase the bagged noodles that taste just as good as the homemade ones? Do we serve ham, a beef roast or a brisket? Then there is the pie dilemma. Should it be pecan pie, apple pie, cherry cheese pie or a plain cherry pie? It’s said to do the easiest pie to make but there needs to be two pies — perhaps a chocolate cake could be made instead of another pie.

Numerous calls and texts have been made to and from family members, trying to decide the best day or evening to get together. As the family grows, some are married so other family get togethers need to be attended too, and then the children seem to move further away from here. There are other social and school functions to attend. You end up picking a date when a majority of the family members can make it. That’s settled. A woman with a blended family said she will have family members coming and going over the week of Christmas so she has to be prepared and flexible.

When you think you have all the gifts taken care of, you remember the stocking stuffers! The gift lists are brought out again and more added to the last minute shopping trip list.

Decorations are all up, though it seems every year fewer decorations are gotten out. You realize through the years, that what is put out has to be “put back!” The main thing is the Christmas Tree is up and decorated. The favorite manager scene is also placed out for all to see. After all, that is the true meaning of Christmas.

Here’s hoping everyone is not having an anxiety attack and remember that for the family all that gets done is appreciated no matter what.