The Christmas countdown is officially on! With less than three weeks to go, I’ve been in what I liked to call “Mama Claus Mode.” My to-do list has included ordering the kids’ presents from my husband and I (and their grandparents), a Christmas baking activity, decorating the house and tree, and little surprises here and there for them. 

It’s a beautiful, wonderful, fun thing keeping the magic of Christmas alive for them. But I have to admit it is also incredibly stressful. 

I know this season isn’t about giving the most presents or doing the most activities. I know I don’t have to holiday photos, holiday cards, matching pjs, elaborate gift wrapping or decor. But I still want to do some of that, even though I have so much laundry to do … even though I have many work tasks and projects as I navigate working from home with kids … even though I am trying to stick to some sort of budget … and even though I am sick. 

I still want to be the best Mama Claus I can be despite feeling stretched thin. 

So I’ve tried to cut some corners. I decided not to put up all my Christmas decor so I wouldn’t have to take it all down. We still don’t do the Elf on the Shelf because it’s enough work playing Santa. We baked and decorated Christmas cupcakes instead of going to our town’s Christmas parade and tree lighting to avoid getting the kids more sick (they’re currently under the weather). 

But as I remind myself what’s most important this holiday season – being happy, healthy and together – I realize I am still putting too much pressure on myself. I don’t know what the answer is to to not feeling overwhelmed during this time of year as I am still figuring it out… It seems like that’s the common theme of my motherhood journey- “still figuring out.” I think many moms can probably relate. 

I hope you all have a minimally stressful, very joyful holiday season! 

To all the Mama Clauses out there, I see you! You are appreciated!