Finding stillness in the Christmas rush

Being a mom during the holiday season often feels like living inside a snow globe that someone keeps shaking. There are lists to make, gifts to buy, cookies to bake, events to attend and memories to create—preferably all at once. Somewhere between the school concerts and the last-minute errands, I catch myself rushing through the very moments I want to remember.

Today, I’m trying to slow down.

I’m learning that not every tradition has to be perfect to be meaningful. Last night we were all watching a movie together and I looked at my husband and said are we not doing enough Christmas activities and he said we are together right now. It reminded me to just be present in being together. That the best moments often happen in the quiet spaces—when the lights are low, the house is still and my kids are curled up beside me, talking about everything and nothing.

The holidays aren’t meant to be a performance. They’re meant to be felt. So I’m working to choose connection over perfection. I’m letting some things go so I can hold tighter to what matters most, being together with my family.