I really enjoyed this honest conversation. I too, have been struggling with mixed feelings about the holidays.
There are parts I'm enjoying, like the decorations, doing a little holiday baking, and gathering with family and friends.
This year anything gift related feels overwhelming to me- the lists of people to buy for, that feeling of obligation to not just buy for one person but then for everyone and where does that stop? Also since Hurricane Helene, the traffic has been horrendous with bridges still out and extra work trucks on the roads and semi trucks taking back roads etc. And the stores are overcrowded, loud with terrible christmas remake music and it's always too hot. So the overwhelm sets in and the hot flashes commence and after an hour of browsing, I leave with nothing. Argh! I cannot do it this year.
So, I'm holding to what feels better and have delegated the shopping for my son to my husband and my son shopped online for my husband. And im letting go of shopping for my extended family. After making this decision, I now hold the tension of not just running out and trying again.
I remind myself that it doesn't matter. And it might feel awkward not to hand out gifts at the large family gathering, but that feeling will pass the next day. And none of it will have mattered.
Your words have been encouraging. Thank you. Keep up the great work!
Oh! This is beautiful, Jess. I'm so glad it's helped fill your cup a little. Allowing ourselves grace is so important. Thanks so much for responding and keep doing the things that support you xx
I really enjoyed this honest conversation. I too, have been struggling with mixed feelings about the holidays.
There are parts I'm enjoying, like the decorations, doing a little holiday baking, and gathering with family and friends.
This year anything gift related feels overwhelming to me- the lists of people to buy for, that feeling of obligation to not just buy for one person but then for everyone and where does that stop? Also since Hurricane Helene, the traffic has been horrendous with bridges still out and extra work trucks on the roads and semi trucks taking back roads etc. And the stores are overcrowded, loud with terrible christmas remake music and it's always too hot. So the overwhelm sets in and the hot flashes commence and after an hour of browsing, I leave with nothing. Argh! I cannot do it this year.
So, I'm holding to what feels better and have delegated the shopping for my son to my husband and my son shopped online for my husband. And im letting go of shopping for my extended family. After making this decision, I now hold the tension of not just running out and trying again.
I remind myself that it doesn't matter. And it might feel awkward not to hand out gifts at the large family gathering, but that feeling will pass the next day. And none of it will have mattered.
Your words have been encouraging. Thank you. Keep up the great work!
Oh! This is beautiful, Jess. I'm so glad it's helped fill your cup a little. Allowing ourselves grace is so important. Thanks so much for responding and keep doing the things that support you xx
The pregnant pause—both of us contemplating Christmases past and future 🎄💝