A questions often asked this time of year is "How can I get through the holidays?"  The only true answer to this question, is to do what is comfortable.  Your decision for a particular situation, may be different then someone else's, so you should rely on doing that which makes you the most comfortable.

Remember the three C's of the Holidays:

     Choose - (don't drift from one thing/event to the next)

     Communicate - discuss your choices with others

     Compromise - assess and listen to others

Plan for the approaching holidays.  Be aware that this might be a difficult time for you.  It's not uncommon to feel out of sorts with the celebratory tone of the season.  The additional stress may affect you emotionally, cognitively, and physically; this is a normal reaction.  It is important to be prepared for these feelings.

Tell stores of earlier times.  Call to mind funny and pleasurable memories.  At first remembering/calling to mind can be painful, but it is therapeutic.

Recognize that holidays won't be the same.  If you try to keep everything as it was, you'll be disappointed.  Doing things a bit differently can acknowledge the change while preserving continuity with the past.  Different menus, changing decorations, attending a different service, or even celebrating in a different location may provide that slight, but significant shift.  However, be aware that your feeling will still be there.  If you decide on a change, be careful not to isolate yourself.

Don't exclude other family members.  The holidays may affect your other family members too.   Talk over your plans, and respect their choices and needs, compromise if necessary.  Everyone, (including yourself) should participate in ways that are comfortable.

Avoid additional stress.  Decide what you really want to do, and what can be avoided. 

Above all - Do the right thing for you, not what others think you should do.