True Spirit

Sometimes it can be hard to remember the intention of something; take the Holiday Season. It’s easy to get stressed out and overloaded with all that goes into making this time special, especially when you have children.

I got so mad the other day because wrapping the presents was getting done too slowly. We ran out of paper, couldn’t find the tape, and the kids were drawing on the presents with a sharpie. I ran to Costco for more supplies, with a bow stuck to my ass and my holiday cheer nowhere to found.

I was trying to pack our bags for our trip and my one-year old was sitting in his suitcase, taking out every item of clothing and putting it on the floor. My three-year old was screaming because I didn’t pack the right pajamas.

My husband and I were more snippy than necessary. We were trying to load up the car, get bags, presents, the kids, the dog…and I’m sure something else that we haven’t yet realized we’ve left.

Looking back on our days proceeding up to this, I see stress. And anxiety. And me losing my temper more than I should have.

But I was just thinking, from our kids perspective, that time was seen totally different!

They got to hang out with both mom and dad, and draw on boxes with markers. They probably laughed as they watched me parade around the house with a bow stuck squarely on my bottom. My son’s favorite thing to do is make messes, so I couldn’t have given him a better present than the chance to toss his clothes around–with an audience! And all of the while, our beautiful tree was sparkling in the background. We ate food on the living room floor watching movies and we listened to holiday music.

So if you’re feeling anything like I have the last week, take a deep breath and remember what this time means for you and your family; be it good food or great company, travel or staying cozy at home– this time of year is supposed to create joy, not an ulcer.