The holidays are here, and so is the pressure!

To RSVP yes to everything.
To host, to travel, to bake, to decorate, to volunteer, to show up with energy you don’t actually have.
​And to smile through it all, like it’s not draining you.

Let me just say this clearly:
​More plans don’t equal more joy.​
Especially when you’re already running on fumes.

This year, scaling back is the win.

Because the real goal isn’t to do it all.
It’s to feel connected.
It’s to protect your peace.
It’s to be present for your people, and for yourself.

So here’s a quick way to reset before the overwhelm takes hold:

📝 The Holiday Audit (do this before your calendar fills up)

1. What actually brings joy to your family?​
Make a quick list, these are your non-negotiables.

2. What do you only do out of guilt, tradition, or pressure?​
Cross it off, or give yourself permission to say no this year.

3. Where will your energy be needed most?​
You can’t be everywhere. Choose impact over appearances.

Pro tip: Build rituals that stick—not ones that stretch you.

Kids don’t need every holiday to be epic.
They need a few grounded, consistent moments they can count on:

• A special breakfast on Thanksgiving morning
• A simple gratitude jar
• A slow walk after dinner to look at decorations

Keep it light. Keep it repeatable. Let the rest go.

You don’t have to earn joy by doing more.​
You’re allowed to protect your energy and still have a beautiful season.
That’s how you make memories that actually feel good.

Cheers to saying "No" this season and not feeling guilty about it!