Christmas stress

I've seen the article on Christmas my Way, and was wondering what everyone's coping strategies were. We've never been away for Christmas as I'd feel too guilty about leaving my parents, but I think about it every year. Maybe one day we'll be able to escape the rounds of family gatherings, but while my children are young I'd feel really mean not letting the rest of the family see them. Should I be more selfish?

Yes!

It's up to you! You could always go away for half of it if you see what I mean, like Christmas, but sepnd NY with the family, or the other way round. I know how you feel though, it can get really intense especially if you don't work in between Christmas and New Year.