I recently ventured out to purchase a pair of swim goggles, thinking it would be a straightforward task since it’s still summer. With temperatures soaring at 99 degrees and long daylight hours inviting kids to splash around, swim season should be thriving. Yet, instead of finding goggles, I stumbled upon a plethora of holiday merchandise that hit me like a wave of anxiety — yes, holiday stress — right in my sunblock-slathered face.
As I strolled through the aisles filled with pool toys and sand shovels, I was instead greeted by displays overflowing with backpacks, notebooks, and lunch boxes, signaling the back-to-school rush. Just a few steps away, a clerk was arranging Halloween decorations, while another was piecing together an artificial Christmas tree. What is going on?
We’re still months away from the arrival of Santa Claus, yet the pressure of holiday preparations is already creeping in. The local craft store that just last week was a celebration of summer now resembles a scene from the North Pole. And don’t even get me started on social media; while I searched for refreshing summer drink ideas, I was bombarded with Elf on the Shelf suggestions in July. This is simply too much!
It seems like the moment we send our kids back to school in the fall, the Christmas countdown begins. Halloween has become a mere afterthought, and Thanksgiving is practically nonexistent. By the time the calendar flips to October, there’s pressure to have all your shopping done. My December calendar fills up with holiday parties, school events, and family gatherings long before I’ve even put away my summer gear. Just last year, I received my first Christmas card the day after Thanksgiving — can you believe that?
I’ve realized that, for many of us, the lion’s share of Christmas planning falls on moms. We’re expected to handle the shopping, cooking, and hosting, yet these responsibilities are being thrust upon us earlier than ever. The stress of creating the perfect holiday for my family used to hit around December 20. Now, while grilling hot dogs in the blazing heat, I find myself creating a shopping list for a gingerbread house party that’s still weeks away. That’s just too much for me!
So, this year, I’m taking a stand. I’m going to savor the final moments of summer and focus on one holiday at a time. I’ll enjoy popsicles with my kids until the very last moment of summer and will not let the looming holiday stress invade my thoughts until I’m ready. I’ll steer clear of holiday aisles until the temperature drops, and I refuse to start any Christmas planning until I’ve packed away all my Thanksgiving decorations.
Stress months in advance? Not this year, folks! Who’s with me?
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Summary:
The holiday season is arriving earlier each year, causing stress and anxiety for many, particularly mothers. Instead of succumbing to the pressure of planning and shopping months in advance, this year’s focus is on embracing the present season and enjoying family time without the added stress of holiday obligations.