As the holiday season approaches, the joyful spirit is often overshadowed by the whirlwind of chaos that accompanies it, especially for mothers. With the endless tasks that come with parenting, it can feel overwhelming. Take, for example, the seemingly infinite number of toys to wrap—if I have to wrap one more toy, I might just lose my mind! So, what kind of gift should I receive for all my hard work? A bowl resembling an elephant that my children crafted at school but looks more like a lump of clay? While I cherish these handmade gifts, this year I’m yearning for something a bit different. Here’s my holiday wishlist:
- A Pain-Free Body
I dream of legs that don’t ache from standing all day, a back that doesn’t feel as if it’s been shattered from lifting my little ones countless times, and arms that aren’t sore from dragging a child out of the toy aisle for the umpteenth time due to a tantrum over a toy. - My Waist Back
Where did my waist go? It seems to have vanished during my pregnancies and hasn’t found its way back. - A Quiet Car Ride
I long for just one car trip where I can listen to music without the Frozen soundtrack playing on repeat. Seriously, let it go already, Elsa! - Fingerprint-Resistant Windows and Mirrors
Imagine standing in the kitchen, glancing out the window, and not seeing a smudged mess. It would be lovely if these could also resist food stains from the inevitable baby food projectile. - A Peaceful Phone Call
Is it too much to ask for a phone conversation longer than ten minutes without having to act as a referee for my children? Sometimes, I just want a moment of quiet. - A Gym Membership
I’d adore a gym membership, along with the time and energy to use it. It would be so nice to actually wear my gym clothes for their intended purpose instead of as everyday attire. - Siblings Who Get Along
My kids seem to have a knack for fighting over the smallest things. Shouldn’t someone give a heads up that having a second child means you also become a full-time referee? - A Year’s Supply of Chocolate
I wish for an endless supply of quality chocolate to savor all by myself—no sharing, not even with my husband. And I’d prefer to enjoy it without hiding in the pantry. - Children Who Listen
It feels like my children have selective hearing. I could yell that the house is on fire, and they still wouldn’t hear me. At this rate, the only one who listens is the dog. - Stain-Free Clothes
Wouldn’t it be nice to get dressed in the morning without inspecting my outfit for stains from various food items? - A Hot Dinner
By the time I serve dinner, it’s practically cold. Why do my kids always think my food is somehow more appealing? - Ketchup as a Vegetable
I’m so tired of nagging about eating veggies. Let’s just declare ketchup a veggie and be done with it! - Yoga Pants as Business Casual
If yoga pants were considered acceptable office attire, my life would be infinitely easier and comfier. - Adult TV Shows During the Day
I’d love to watch something other than kid-centric shows during the day without dozing off halfway through. - Hot Coffee
Is it too much to ask to enjoy a cup of coffee while it’s still hot? I mean, without having to reheat it multiple times. - An Uninterrupted Shower
I just want ten minutes in the shower without interruptions, without choosing between shaving or washing my hair. - French Fries Declared as a Food Group
If scientists could prove that French fries are essential for a balanced diet, I’d be a superstar mom! - A Perfect Family Picture
I dream of a family photo where everyone is smiling and looking at the camera—on the first try! - Gift Cards to Favorite Stores
I want stacks of gift cards to my preferred shops, along with a day to shop without my kids wreaking havoc. - A Real Date Night
Parent-teacher conferences don’t count as a date! I yearn for a dinner out without crayons, where we can have uninterrupted adult conversations. - Beautiful Sounding Musical Instruments
Could we invent musical instruments that don’t make the dog bark and don’t cause my ears to bleed? Or better yet, let’s just avoid gifting these to my kids altogether.
Being a mother is undoubtedly the most fulfilling role in my life, and while I cherish every moment with my children, it’s perfectly okay to wish for some time to pamper myself. Here’s hoping those around us are taking notes!
For more insights on parenting and family planning, you can check out this post and learn more about family-building options from this excellent resource.
In summary, every mom has wishes that go beyond the typical gifts. Our needs often include personal time, comfort, and a little indulgence. As we celebrate the holidays, let’s remember that our well-being matters just as much as our families.