Oh, the holidays! That magical season when we somehow transform into our most dazzling, Pinterest-worthy selves… or at least, that’s the dream, right? As much as I love the twinkling lights, cozy sweaters, and endless holiday treats, I also know this season can feel like an unrelenting to-do list with a deadline - and guess who’s usually at the helm? Moms like us! But this year, I’m all about keeping the holiday cheer without the holiday stress. Let’s break down some simple, stylish strategies for staying sane and actually enjoying this season with the people who matter most.

Step 1: The Power of the Good Enough Plan (or, Why Martha Stewart Doesn’t Live Here)

Every year, I’d plan an epic holiday checklist: handmade wreaths, customized ornaments, homemade sugar cookies shaped like reindeer… and every year, I’d end up exhausted, covered in glitter, and halfway through a bottle of holiday spiced wine by December 15th. Eventually, I learned a magical word: simplify. This year, I’m curating my holiday bucket list with only a few good enough essentials. 

The key? Focusing on things that make us smile rather than add to the stress. So yes, our tree is trimmed, but I ditched the handmade garlands for the kids’ favorite decorations - mismatched and all. And you know what? It’s adorable and completely stress-free.

Step 2: Outsource and Delegate, Darling

I used to think that mom meant holiday superhero. Now, I’m all about sharing the holiday load. Need gifts wrapped? Get the kids involved! They love it (tape everywhere!), and I get a break. Is Grandma asking what she can bring? Give her a whole side dish! And you can bet I’ve got a list of stores that wrap gifts for free because a little glam packaging never hurt anyone.

Even more, let’s give the non-cookers in the family a moment to shine. My husband is master of the charcuterie board, so guess what’s his job this year? Hello, Instagram-worthy appetizer table! The holiday load isn’t mine alone - and that’s a gift all on its own.

Step 3: Embrace a Few Holiday Shortcuts (Yes, I’m Looking at You, Store-Bought Cookies)

Repeat after me: The pre-made cookie dough is your friend.  I love the idea of baking with my kids, but the reality? Flour everywhere, overcooked edges, and someone crying because the icing “looks weird.” So I’m making the cookie experience magical in our own way - by hitting up the bakery and choosing our favorites. We still get the “decorating experience” at home, but now I’m supervising icing chaos with a latte in hand.

And if your inner hostess wants to serve something that screams “holiday,” remember you don’t have to make it from scratch. A beautiful cheese plate, pre-made pies that you top with fresh whipped cream - oh, the little secrets that make us look like we spent hours in the kitchen.

Step 4: Guard the Sacred Me-Time Rituals

Listen, if there’s one gift we deserve as moms during the holiday season, it’s guilt-free time to ourselves. My little secret? A Sunday evening mom-only spa hour. I load up on pumpkin-scented bath bombs and lock myself in the bathroom for an hour of peace and bubbly. Maybe it’s five minutes of journaling while the kids are glued to a holiday movie or a quick meditation break while they’re busy decorating the dog (oh, Mia's new Santa hat!). These little moments are my secret to staying calm when the holiday chaos heats up.

Step 5: Create Fun, Personal Holiday Traditions (That Don’t Require a Pinterest Board)

The holidays aren’t about perfection - they’re about connection. So we started a new “pajama parade” tradition: on Christmas Eve, everyone gets to pick the silliest holiday pajamas (yes, even the dog) and parade around the house. It’s ridiculous, it’s hilarious, and it’s my new favorite part of the season.

And that’s what it’s all about, isn’t it? Making memories, sharing laughter, and - hopefully - keeping our cool.

So, here’s to a holiday season that’s a little less hectic and a lot more joyful! Let’s trade in our super-mom capes for something comfier, pour a glass of eggnog, and savor the beautifully imperfect moments. After all, it’s those little memories (and the “pajama parade” videos) that our kids will cherish long after the glitter has been swept away. Happy Holidays!

xoxo