It doesn't sound like every holiday is the same since you are NOT pushing things down any longer. Things are shifting as you grow, right? My own feeling is that putting on a happy face is a short-term strategy with long term consequences, like illness and depression. By NOT continuing in the denial system, you are clearing MAJOR space in your life for honesty and change.

I like SDs suggestions and use them all. I also journal. I also use essential oils (which are all useful for some specific maladies...lol) to do non-dangerous self-medicating! And then, once the holidays exit the scene, I breathe a big sigh of relief.

But know that I'm supporting you as I go through this weekend. While I won't have much computer time, I'll be keeping you in my thoughts Ready....

Blessings to you,

MCL