Home » Stress and relationships during the holidays

Stress and relationships during the holidays

by Minden Press-Herald

As we start the holiday season, it is crunch time for us. We are super busy at the paper, which is great for us. But, it is also a stressful time to make sure all goes off without a hitch and everyone stays on track and keeping all working together without getting upset or flying off the handle.

Today, while doing my devotion, I was reminded to remember family first and make sure you spend time with them. Today is all you have with them that you know for sure.

When talking with my sister today, she reminded me that when we all get stressed and can’t figure it out, we take it out on the ones we love the most.

We have to remember they don’t mean to take out stress on us, but they feel safe in the relationship, so they do. Since they know we are not going anywhere, so they lash out and then ask for forgiveness later.

Why is it that we do that?

I have learned to filter my words even though I am far from perfect. It has taken many years to do so, involving much prayer and seeking help because of it.

We have to be reminded on a daily basis sometimes that our spouse or family are not the enemy. They are here for us. If it wasn’t for my spouse I don’t know where I would be.

You learn who your friends are in life. Most people are friends at their convenience and then you have some that are “outer layer” friends. The ones that you don’t tell much to because they feel the need to share with others and then when it gets back to you they story isn’t even true.

I know my husband is a great listener. He has tried to help and fix things through the years but now realizes that I don’t want him to fix it I just need to get it out and get it off my chest. Sometimes he helps me see things in a different light. I am a hot-headed woman that reacts too quickly sometimes. He is laid back and takes it all in. I guess that is why we compliment each other.

Does my husband get on my nerves? For sure — sometimes too much. But we are best friends. We love to be with one another.

We work together, which is great now. Back in the day when we worked together, I couldn’t handle it. It saddens me to see so many divorces these days. “Hey let’s get married and try this out. And if you get on my nerves we will just divorce and try again.” That is not what the Bible says.

It is time for people to cool off, sit down, and work things out. Think back to what made you marry each other in the first place.

There is always a silver lining in every cloud. Will you go through rough times? You betcha. But how you handle it is what makes a difference.

Is God the center of you marriage? If not maybe that is the problem. You are going to have problems in all aspects of your life. How you handle them is up to you. You can go through issues and still have peace.

My husband stands on what he says, “Only way out of this marriage is a body bag, you choose!” It’s the running joke but think of it. It is not going to be easy but it is worth working for. Hug your husband and your family a little tighter today.

CREAMY PEPPER JACK CHICKEN ENCHILADAS

These creamy pepper jack chicken enchiladas are to die for. So cheesy and so creamy.
Serves: 8 servings

INGREDIENTS
4 chicken breasts, cooked and cut into bite size pieces
10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
1 pint sour cream
4 oz can Ortega green chilies, chopped
½ cup chopped green onion
9 medium size tortillas
¾ lb. grated pepper jack cheese
¼ lb. grated cheddar cheese

INSTRUCTIONS
In a large bowl, combine soup, sour cream, chilies, onions and pepper jack cheese together.
Take out and set aside 2 cups of this mixture.
Add chicken pieces to the original cream mixture bowl and mix together.
Spray a 9×13 pan with cooking spray.
Layer the bottom of the pan with 3 tortillas ripped into fourths.
Spread ½ of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. .
Rip 3 more tortillas up and layer over the chicken mixture.
Spread the rest of the chicken mixture over the tortillas.
Layer with 3 more torn tortillas
Pour the 2 cups of sauce over the top of the tortillas. Top with Cheddar cheese.
Bake at 350 degree for 40-45 minutes.
Top with a dollop of sour cream and guacamole.

Tina Specht is co-publisher of the Minden Press-Herald. She shares her thoughts and recipes each Thursday.

Related Posts

Comments are closed.