If the thought of hosting your family during the holiday season sends you straight to the wine section at your local grocer, fear not, let me let you in on a little secret to reduce your holiday stress. To be fair, the hustle and bustle this time of year can be exhausting. I have a large Jamaican family who loves to party for any given reason and during the Christmas season, their merriment is at a whole other level.
Believe me, I live for the family meals, endless games of dominos, and hours of holiday tunes, but what actually makes this the best time of the year is that I finally have a chance to slow down and focus on my well-being. I think of it as a little gift to myself.
You see, having parents who are willing to take a two-day drive from Toronto, Canada to my suburban home in Gwinnett County means, I get relieved of my “adult responsibilities.”
- Dinner made for the fam‘. Check.
- Clothes laundered and folded. Check.
- You’re hungry and want something to eat? Go ask grandma.
It’s true when my parents are in town, I’m the one who is being cared for ‘cause motherhood burnout is real. I mean, I’ve spent more days than I’d like to admit in a complete daze, counting down the hours until I could get home to hit the sheets only to do it all over again the next day.
So, knowing my mom is around to whip a delicious meal for my family at a moment notice, or my dad is willing to complete small home repairs I’ve been putting off for months is not only helpful it’s calming.
Reduce Holiday Stress
While my parents dote over their only granddaughter (and in my mind their favorite grandchild), I take advantage of sleeping in late, going for runs, scrolling on social media, heck even visiting the nail salon for a much-needed pedicure.
Is it a little selfish? Maybe, but it’s the one time of the year where I give myself permission to put my needs first and practice a little self-care. I don’t have to think or plan anything for anyone but myself and it feels pretty awesome.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t force my parents to take over, they are willing participants in operation “escape adulthood.” I think that they recognize even good parents need a break once in a while. I also secretly believe they enjoy knowing their grown daughter still really needs them.
I realize I am blessed to have parents who love and support me unconditionally and even though they are living their “best-retired life”; they are always willing to help in any way that they can. Believe me, I do not take this for granted.
Quality Time with the Family
This holiday season, I look forward to spending quality time with my family, while also carving out some much needed and well-deserved time to myself. This gives me a chance to recharge and start the new year refreshed and ready to take on any challenge that motherhood may bring.
Your turn, do you love or loathe the holiday season?
