19/11/2022
We are 5 weeks away from Christmas, and I’ve had so many people say to me “I really don’t know how I’m going to cope this holiday”
I get it… if you are experiencing Anticipatory Grief, you may not feel like socialising. If you are like me, you want to spend every waking moment with your pet, while you can. And that’s ok!!
If this is your first Christmas without your beloved fur child, it may feel very weird and surreal.
You would normally buy them a Christmas toy and watch the joy on their face as they tear the paper open, to get the squeaker out.
My biggest tip I can give you is, be kind to yourself and do what feels right. You are not a bad friend if you say No to an invitation. You have already been through the worst case scenario, what is the worst thing that can happen if you decline a party? Please don’t feel obligated to go. You don’t need to make excuses, either. ❤️🩹 Some people will understand, and some won’t. It’s not your job to people please when you are going through a loss.
Not that you need it, but you have my permission to put your needs first. Practice some self care, don’t try to put on the brave face. You don’t have to act all Ho Ho Ho, merry and bright.
This will be my third Christmas without my boy. For those who don’t know, Opie was euthanased on the 23rd December, so Christmas is always tough for me too.
The first year (2 days after) I wanted to wallow at home and do nothing. I felt forced to participate in family traditions. Luckily my family understood and gave me the space I needed.
Last year I threw myself into working at the vet clinic. I was able to do little rituals with other peoples pets (I made edible Christmas bon bons and shared them with our boarding dogs) and I was working alone, which was good for me.
This year… I don’t know 🤷♀️ what I will do? But I know I will do what feels right for me, no pressure
