Dear Luz #13

Dear Luz,

Every year my husband breaks out his awful Christmas sweaters. They’re so tacky, and I hate them with a fiery passion. But he thinks they’re hysterical. How do I burn them, I mean, rid them from our lives?

–Stuck in sweater hell

Dear Xmas Cheer, 

Okay, hold up—I’m a HUGE fan of tacky holiday sweaters! They make the world a brighter place. Maybe you missed the memo. 

And,  are you really trying to rob your husband of his holiday joy? Those sweaters might be cringe-worthy, but if they make him laugh like a kid on Christmas morning, why play the Grinch this season? 

You’re better than this.

Dear Luz,

My neighbor goes all out with holiday decorations. His house looks like a Las Vegas casino—flashing lights, inflatable Santa, and so many ornaments, I’m half-expecting a reindeer to start taking bets! How do I keep my sanity without going full sourpuss?

–Blinded by the light

Dear Blinded,

Let’s start with taking a breath. Instead of whining, grab some oversized sunglasses and throw a “glow-in-the-dark” cocktail party on your porch. Charge admission—because clearly, you’re suffering deserves a profit.

And the next time you roll your eyes at those blinding lights, just remember: it’s free entertainment.

Dear Luz,

I’m a senior in high school, and so is my boyfriend. He really wants to go to the same college as me, but I’m not interested. I want to stay together for the rest of high school and go to prom with him, but I want to experience new things and meet new people in college. If I don’t tell him this soon, I’m worried he’ll pick the same college as me. But if I do tell him, I’m worried he’ll break up with me. I considered lying to him about where I decide to go, but that didn’t feel right either. What should I do?

–Worried I’ll be solo at the prom

Dear No Need to Worry,

Time to spill the tea and get real, girlfriend. You’re obviously ready to explore, meet new people, and live your best life—no room for apologies. If he’s worth keeping around, he’ll understand you’re not here for a never-ending sitcom.

And let’s face it: being anything but true to yourself is like rocking crocs on the red carpet—just a hot mess! If he can’t handle your ambition, he’s definitely not the right co-star for your next season. It’s ok to say, “Thank you, Next.”

Dear Luz,

I am going to cut the chase; I truly, deeply dislike holiday music. Please HELP!?

–Stuck in Christmas music hell

Dear Stuck in a Christmas Loop,

Ah, the sweet sound of holiday cheer turned into a cheerful nightmare. Since it seems like Christmas music is here to stay, why not flip the script? Create your own anthem—try belting out “This too shall pass… eventually” to the most annoying jingle you can think of, i.e., Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer. Bonus points if it drives your kids or coworkers crazy.

Remember, this “torture” is a seasonal one. Soon, everyone will be fumbling through the lyrics of “Auld Lang Syne” like it’s a test they never studied for.

Dear Luz,

I have to see my sister and her family over the holidays, and I always dread it. They are very wealthy and act like they’re so much better than us. Whenever we spend time with them, my kids start asking for clothing and toys we can’t afford. I don’t know how to approach this topic with her, but I can’t let it continue. 

–Living a middle-class life

Dear Middle Class,

Wow. I wish I had a wealthy sister to complain about.  I am sure the holiday visit to the high rollers feels like stepping into a live episode of “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” but without the glam squad. If their wealth makes you want to run for the hills, just book a spontaneous vacation instead.

But if you must go, channel your inner comedian. Hit your sister with some sarcasm: “So, do your kids come with a price tag?” Set those boundaries—your kids aren’t shopping in her luxury aisle.

You’ve got the real treasures. And if all else fails, bring a ridiculous gift—like a DIY sweater with your family’s faces on it (you’ll thank me).

To read other Dear Luz articles, click here.

This article was published in the November/December 2024 edition of Connect to Northern Westchester.