Now that Christmas is here, the question is what do we do with it? For couples with kids, the answer is pretty much with the kids.

Kids just make Christmas special. So I want to dedicate this article to the couples without those little bundles of joy who frequently ask, questions like ‘where does Jesus live or where does Mary buy his pampers?’

Learning how to get through the holidays is important. All that is required of you and your partner can be a bit of a challenge especially while trying to enjoy yourselves. But it’s Christmas. This is hardly the time to ‘show your partner who is boss’. Let Christmas be the one day when you just listen to each other and enjoy the spirit of the holiday—forget the fighting.

The number one topic of disaster in relationships is money! Though Christmas puts a greater strain on your wallet, it does not have to break the bank. Try not to spend too much if finances are tight. It’s best to work out some sort of budget together and see what you can or cannot afford. Surprises are great, but not if they are going to stir up problems later.

Even when money is not an issue, most couples struggle with what to buy for their partners. It is something that has to be taken into serious consideration. There is nothing worse than buying your man something, he already has, or something he really doesn’t fancy?

I suggest that before the holiday, pay attention to what makes your partner happy. Clues to the perfect gift may be right in front of you.  Try asking friends as well. They might know something you do not. Be crafty if you must. Point out items during commercials that you think your partner might like and see how they react (this is an excellent time to test those investigation skills you’ve been working on since you watched your first detective show!)

What is the thing that brings people together besides family? Yes, food! Do some fun cooking with your partner and try out new and daring recipes. I know most men loathe the kitchen and only like what comes out of it, but try and use this time to make it your new best friend – along with your spouse of course!

You could watch distinguished chefs like Jamie Olive or Ainsley Harriott on Christmas Eve and then turn your kitchen into a magical place come D-Day! However, what would really be fun is if you turned the kitchen into a battlefield. Hold on—put the butcher knife down. I’m not talking about that kind of battle. Food fights are the winner –forget pillow fights- because then, the fun will be in how you get that food off! Do not ask me to explain that.

Rent a movie you both approve of. Do not selfishly scamper off to the video store and come back to surprise, or most likely bore him with ‘The Notebook’ or ‘Legally Blonde’ movies. It is simple consideration. I know I wouldn’t want my man to surprise me with ‘Die Hard’ or some movie about a bank robbery gone wrong.

That said Christmas would be a lot easier for the ones who have lost touch with the spirit of jubilation. You have the power to make or break it. Grab a cup of eggnog and make the day as special as only you can.

Merry Christmas!
rachelgaruka@yahoo.co.uk