Whenever a member of our family declares a “family hug,” we all must stop whatever we are doing IMMEDIATELY, and we come together for a four-way hug. (It’s actually a five-way hug if you count our Goldendoodle, Pearl. Even though she isn’t a human, she is a person, so she is included. Going forward, I imagine it will be a six-way hug. Because Bernie.)
Say hi to Bernie, everyone.
Any of us can call for a family hug at any time, although the dogs have never exercised this right. When a family hug is called, there are no excuses. It is completely non-negotiable. If you are fighting, playing, working, whatever, you come to the family hug. Mad, scared, happy, sad, you come to the family hug. Any time is a good time for a family hug.
Now that I’m thinking about it, though, I guess it’s really more of a huddle than a hug. We basically stand in a close circle with our arms around each other. Maybe we should call it a huggle.
Whatever you call it, these things are magic. They can nip a tantrum in the bud, kickstart a fun family night, or just make a memory. They even work when Mommy or Daddy is in a bad mood. I know studies have shown that hugs can reduce anxiety, stress and even illness. I’m here to tell you that when that giant hug involves your awesome husband, two adorable pups, and two even cuter kids, the benefits are multiplied. The only thing I’ve found that the huggle can’t conquer is “hangry.” If you’re hangry, you just need a hamburger, not a hug. Maybe you’ll take a hug after you eat your burger.
I can’t remember how the huggle was first instituted, but it is one of my favorite family traditions. It’s right up there with watching movies on the back porch and picking out our Christmas tree. There will surely come a time when our kids will rebel against the huggle. I guess that’s all the more reason to squeeze in as many as I can right now.
What are your family’s favorite traditions or ways to “reboot” when someone gets a little grumpy?