Advice: ‘Embrace the awkward’
It’s that time of year again. The time when Christmas songs begin playing two months before Christmas. The time when everything from Glade candles to shampoo is pumpkin spice-scented. The time when we celebrate the things we have and the people we love. And sometimes, it’s the time of year when we realize that the people we love (AKA extended family) only come around one time out of the year for a reason. Here are some tips on surviving the holidays with a crazy family.
She says: Coming from a large family (one of 47 first cousins), I speak from experience about crazy family gatherings. Most of the time, we end up using a church gym because that is the only place that fits everyone. Last year for Thanksgiving, we all packed into my aunt’s house, plus her garage as a second dining room.
For me, the holidays wouldn’t be complete without Aunt Barbara’s eccentric cat quilts and Grandpa’s tall tales. Don’t get me started on all the “My-you’ve-certainly-grown-since-we-last-saw-you” or “You’re-how-old-and-you-still-aren’t-married?” chats that are bound to happen within the first five seconds of walking in the door. But, family is family. You can’t choose them, but you can learn how to love them and their quirky personalities.
When talk at the dinner table gets boring, try actually sounding interested. Even if you’ve already heard the same story from Grandpa three times that day, act like it’s the most interesting thing in the world. We tend to take our crazy relatives for granted and dismiss what they have to say, but they can give some good life advice and teach us a lot.
If you’re still bored out of your mind, spin an even crazier story than the ones your relatives tell. One late night talk show host recently challenged viewers to tell the story of “Frozen” to a grandparent, but to make it sound realistic and believable. The reactions were priceless, so if you do this, keep the camera ready for potential future home video material.
Sometimes, you don’t even get the privilege of being at the table with other adults and instead find yourself banished to the kids table. When this happens, make sure you have some jokes ready for the younger kids. They already look up to you, so anything you say is basically golden to them. Laugh your way through the night and you might find joy in being a kid again.
This holiday season, keep in mind you aren’t the only one with a crazy family. Even if your family is far from normal, they will always be there for you. You might as well make the most of this time and put the “fun” in dysfunctional.
— Alyssa Hawkins is a freshman majoring in journalism. She’s an avid Disney junkie, unapologetic organizer and a lover of all things chocolate. Send questions or advice requests to alyssa.hawkins@aggiemail.usu.edu or on Twitter: @_alyssahawkins.
He says: We’ve all been there before. The pestering aunt who wants to know what you’re studying, who you’re dating and how much school you have left. Or what about the uncle who seems to think you’re still a senior in high school? And then there’s the cousin who seems to be better at everything and you know everyone is thinking, “Why can’t you be more like him?”
OK, so it’s probably not that bad. In all reality, it’s usually a huge relief to be done with finals and have the chance to spend time with those loved ones you only see twice a year. Although we get hit with loads of questions, it’s nice to know that our families really do care. I’ve found the best solution is to have a list of answers that you’re ready to give. Be sure to have a major (you can make one up if you’re undeclared) and avoid awkward questions. If you’re dating someone, be willing to spare every last detail. If you’re not ready to let a relative into your love life, simply say you’re dating around. Honesty is important, but you can always leave out minor details. Lastly, be sure to ask them about their lives. Even if you’re not interested in how their bowling league or canasta night is going, just ask. It really means a lot to them.
My last bit of advice is to embrace the awkward situations. Every family has them, and they usually turn into good stories down the road. Think about Christmas Vacation. How fun would it be to hang out with the Griswolds during Christmas break? Everyone has a “Cousin Eddy” that keeps the holiday season fresh. Embrace “Cousin Eddy.” He may be the most entertaining part of your holiday break.
Oh, and make sure to snag as much leftover turkey as possible. Nothing beats turkey sandwiches while you’re studying for finals.
Really, nothing.
— Colten is a junior majoring in technical writing. His life is perfect, so you can take his advice. Submit questions or advice requests at coltenvantussenbrook@gmail.com or on Twitter @coltvant.
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