It’s the most beautiful time of the year, but not one size fits all! The hustle, stress, and chaos are not for everyone, young and old alike.
Is it tradition or expectation?
Every year I buy Christmas cards, and most years, they don’t even make it out of the box they come in. We buy all the goods for a baking day but barely get through the sugar cookies without a meltdown or hard feelings. No matter how well protected, the tree will have to be redecorated 101 times from the bottom up due to not only your young children but also your furbabies. We have a list. The lines are long. The weather is unpredictable. The days are shorter, and the weeks will pass too quickly, causing last-minute rush and panic. Sound familiar?
They see us, even when we don’t see them watching!
Sometimes I think we overlook how that same busyness we feel affects our children, young as well as older, and also those with special needs. I am just a mom, definitely, not an expert. My husband and I have been raising our girls for twenty-five years, and though we are not perfect, I think we do okay. But with all the craziness of life itself, and let’s not dismiss the last couple of years, maybe it’s time we get back to living in the season of the holidays instead of allowing it to consume us. When we feel it, they do too. When we react, they do too. When we are overwhelmed, they are too. When the season’s magic is wavering, it is time to step back and take it all in.
Keep what works. Change what doesn’t!
- Watch all the holiday movies you can. Stay in your pajamas or your favorite comfy clothes, and press play. Most local platforms have a holiday movies list, find your favorites and watch on repeat!
- Bake the cookies and eat the sprinkles. When I think about holiday desserts, two favorites come to mind: sugar cookies and fudge. Both likely come with a handed-down recipe card from a grandmother down your line. Second best, ask google for the best five-star cookies.
- Plan family togetherness nights and stay connected with those closest to you. Write letters to Santa, play a favorite board or video games, or sing karaoke and dance to your holiday favorites in your family room.
- Holiday shopping: Write your list and stick to your budget to avoid excessive shopping, extended wait times, and long lines.
- Pass on holiday festivities to avoid overwhelming and causing sensory overload for yourself and other family members. It is okay to pass on a visit with Santa or not to tour bright lights and loud displays. Remember that holiday traditions can be tailored to fit your family.
As we pass into December and the days wind down, Let us not forget the reason for the season. There is so much more than chaos; we must remember to stop, be present, and embrace all the moments!
Happy Holidays!
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