Christmas week has arrived! The gifts sit wrapped and nestled under the tree, and our calendar is decorated with a few fun get-togethers this week. Kevin is off of work which is an added bonus and I’m truly looking forward to all that is in store for the upcoming week starting with my niece’s birthday party this afternoon!

But with all we have planned, I think it’s also important to remember to make time for rest too. The holidays can become very busy with multiple family visits and dissolution of routine. I know for me personally, I thrive on routine, so even when the things interrupting it are good things, I still need to find time in those busy days to decompress. This is really important for children too. The holidays can be overstimulating for them, what with gifts, and extra sugar and so much excitement. It’s normal for some meltdowns to occur. So be easy on yourself and your kiddos and remember that this time of the year only happens once but the memories can last a lifetime. Let’s make them happy ones 🙂

Also, I encourage you, with all the fun Christmas celebrations and visits planned for this week, not to forget to also write in time for naps, and a low key day or two. The holidays are meant to be enjoyed and I think the best way to do that is to not overrun yourself with stress and recognize when you may need to take a break.

If you’re the parent of a baby or toddler, don’t be afraid to say no to certain events or set firm boundaries for when you need to leave if necessary. Most people are understanding. For example,  we have been really fortunate that our family has been flexible in changing the time of our Christmas Eve festivities to be a bit earlier since Julia’s come along.

Sometimes as a new mom it can be hard to stand your ground this time of year and you may feel the pressure to mold your baby to what works for everyone else but this doesn’t work with every baby! You know what is best for your child and if evening Christmas parties that start at your kid’s regular bedtime seem like a nightmare waiting to happen – don’t be afraid to decline or find a sitter and excuse your child from it. I’ll say it again – you know what’s best. Some kids do fine with the change in routine, but many don’t and that’s ok too.

With all that being said, I hope that you and yours have a wonderful holiday, whichever it is you celebrate! Sending you lots of love, light and holiday cheer!