Yesterday, I proposed to my sister and father that we have a Christmas brunch instead of a Christmas dinner this year. Both of them seemed quite receptive to the idea. I asked that they discuss the idea with my brother, who lives with my dad and always does the primary cooking (Sis and I bring things, too). My arguments for a brunch vs. a dinner (to my sister) were as follows:


* Dad would be less drunk then

* Less work for my brother

* A nice change in food items

* Possibly (though not certain) eliminate my dad's girlfriend from the event, especially if Dad takes her out to dinner that night

* Not require as long of a stay time

* Mean that I can take my evening meds on time since I'd be home for dinner

* Allow my sister to spend Christmas dinner with her husband, who never goes to my dad's house for dinner

* Cheaper overall

* Less stressful


If my brunch idea works out, maybe that could become my family's new Christmas day tradition. I know that I'm often the one in the family with ideas for changes, but I never dictate things and my siblings, especially my brother are assertive enough to reject ideas.


Dad said it's fine to still have it at his house. I think that's best for various reasons.


Those who remember my issues with my dad, I've obviously started talking to him again. A couple weeks back he called me twice (once vmx, once hubby answered) desperate to talk with me. He apologized to me to my husband, though not me, but he must have said he loved me six times, twice to hubby and four times to me. I talked to him and just made pleasant conversation on "other" topics. I'm not a grudge holder, nor am I stubborn. However, my ideas for Christmas will hopefully ease the extreme stress and triggers. These past two years have been rough for my family.