Grinch-dad's holiday message to parents

[clavus]

We run through life, oblivious to the joy around us, choosing only to recognize it at Hallmark sanctioned events – Graduations, Birthdays, and of course, Christmas. One of life’s truths is that the best times rarely happen when they are supposed to.

My favorite times with my kids are always unscripted - running around the couch making race-car sounds while the Beastie Boys thump in the background; a water-balloon ambush after a Wednesday afternoon commute; riding the ferry on the way to our vacation destination.

I urge you all to ignore the holiday splendor that you are “supposed” to feel this time of year. Focus instead on the everyday joys of being a parent.

[Coppertop]

"Either all days are holy, or none are. I haven't figured out which yet." - paraphrased (horribly I'm sure) from Terry Pratchett's Feet of Clay

I think that says it rather nicely.

[Charlatan]

That is just how I live my life Clavus... It used to piss my wife (then girlfriend) off that I wouldn't go "all out" for Valentine's Day... But when I would show up with flowers or take her to dinner, just because, she would love it.

I just resent(ed) being told when I should be having a "Kodak moment".

I am the same way with my kids.

[shaggs_manoa]

Well my child is spoiled year round, both with attention and gifts. She knows that as long as she behaves she gets whatever she asks for, be it a hug or some toy/gadget. It amazes me how often she just comes around looking for a hug or a kiss throughout the day. I do make her wait for big gifts. Anything over a hundred bucks or so must be a birthday or holiday gift. BTW wife gets same treatment although her must wait for holiday limit is closer to a grand.