It’s Okay If the Holidays Aren’t Perfect

The holidays—love them or hate them—they’re here.

So many people have mixed feelings about this time of year. Me? I love it. Always have. I’m also lovingly teased by my sisters for being a complete spaz of excitement every December.

When I think back to my childhood, I remember my mom—always frazzled, always behind. Christmas Eve shopping was our tradition. She’d park us on a bench at the mall, pile shopping bags at our feet, and yell, “Do NOT look!” as she rushed off to the next store. Chaos, stress… and somehow still magic.

Then I think about when my boys were little and money was tight. I remember lying awake wondering if I had done enough. Would they feel disappointed? Would I somehow fail them at Christmas? I wish I could go back and tell that version of myself: It’s okay. Christmas is what you make it.

Now, as a grandma, I see it so clearly. Slow down. We do not have to be perfect. The “Ralph Lauren Christmas” is a myth. The holiday will take as much—or as little—as you give it, and it will still be magic.

So take a deep breath.

It’s okay to be excited.

It’s okay if things aren’t perfect.

You’ve got this.

Warmly,

Kate