This past Christmas was very stressful for many families because the 25 was on a Wednesday. This did not allow time for today's extended families to get together, relax, and enjoy the day. As theologians and scholars know, Jesus Christ was almost certainly not born on Dec. 25. Change the date of Christmas to the third Saturday of December, with the Eve, the day before, being the holiday off from work. This simple act, which I think could be done by presidential executive order, would make the family-oriented holiday more relaxing to all.

And move Thanksgiving, too! Make it the third Saturday of the month. Just because President Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving on a Thursday doesn't mean it can't be changed also. Moving these two holidays to make three-day weekends will benefit many Americans, particularly the hard-working middle class - and it won't cost taxpayers a cent.

I wrote and emailed President Obama on Dec. 25 expressing these wishes. If you agree, contact him, our senators and representatives and let them know about this simple act that will improve the lives of many.