I honestly don't recall my family having many traditions or special moments during the holidays while growing up and that is probably the reason I strived so much as a parent to make special moments for my kids. Christmas pajamas, all the baking, especially wreath cookies, one present for each that the tag said "LAST", meaning it was the best gift, driving to see outdoor lights, the silly Christmas card photo, and on and on.
People are always writing about the stress of the holidays. Too much to do in too little time with budgets and nerves whittled down too far. The "happiness experts" always recommend doing less not more and deciding what really matters to you and letting go of the rest. We women all know that is easier said than done. Truth is, women are the ones that do Christmas. We are the shoppers, wrappers, bakers, drivers, and creators of most of it. Yes, it is exhausting. Yes, we want it to be perfect, all the while knowing, perfection is a lost cause. Satisfaction comes from "good enough" actually being good enough. Not all presents are hits. Not all meals are made from scratch and three courses. Not all people are grateful and loving. And, you know what? It's okay. Coming from this woman, who's middle name has always been Perfection, this is a revelation! Oh, I'll still stress some over the holidays, but, hopefully, a little less than usual. And that's why, right now, I'm just gonna sit on the sofa and have some eggnog. Screw the calories!
People are always writing about the stress of the holidays. Too much to do in too little time with budgets and nerves whittled down too far. The "happiness experts" always recommend doing less not more and deciding what really matters to you and letting go of the rest. We women all know that is easier said than done. Truth is, women are the ones that do Christmas. We are the shoppers, wrappers, bakers, drivers, and creators of most of it. Yes, it is exhausting. Yes, we want it to be perfect, all the while knowing, perfection is a lost cause. Satisfaction comes from "good enough" actually being good enough. Not all presents are hits. Not all meals are made from scratch and three courses. Not all people are grateful and loving. And, you know what? It's okay. Coming from this woman, who's middle name has always been Perfection, this is a revelation! Oh, I'll still stress some over the holidays, but, hopefully, a little less than usual. And that's why, right now, I'm just gonna sit on the sofa and have some eggnog. Screw the calories!
Love you!
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