Dear Parent,

Yes, you—the person who finds themselves wondering how they’ll “fit it all in.” The one who’s simultaneously trying to work, make sure your kid has a memorable Christmas, and maintain your sanity. (And maybe the one who sometimes secretly wishes the holidays would hurry up and pass so you can get back to normal.) 

How are you really doing?

If you could rate how you’re feeling this season—with 1 being absolutely drowning to 10 being absolutely thriving—what number would you give yourself?

Go on…check in with yourself. We’ll wait. 

If you gave yourself a low score, can we affirm you for a bit? The holidays are tough, even in the most ideal circumstances. And when circumstances aren’t ideal, the holidays and all the responsibility that comes with it can feel pretty heavy. Whether it’s financial struggles, tense family dynamics, or a combination of feelings you can’t adequately define right now, we want to let you know your best is good enough…even if you have less to give than you’d like.

The holiday season requires a different kind of effort for parents. But instead of adjusting our expectations of ourselves during this time of year, we simply believe we can add more to our already extensive list of responsibilities with zero repercussions. While the holidays are meant to slow us down and bring us back to what’s true, we often feel rushed, stressed, and spread way too thin. And let’s be honest: the added pressure doesn’t leave us feeling like all is calm or all is bright. 

We all want to create a holiday season our kids will remember, but it’s all too easy to overlook the truth: what makes this time of year memorable is our intentionality more than anything else. The holiday wonder hinges on the delightful surprises, sure, but also in the moments our family has come to know and love…the moments we each intentionally craft for our families year after year. 

So if there’s anything we wish for you this year, it’s for you…

To let yourself off the hook a little. 

To know that the holiday wonder exists because you exist. 

To realize the magic is in the memories you’re making. 

To lower your expectations and be pleasantly surprised by how well the holidays turn out once you do.

To enjoy the holidays for yourself because they’re yours, too.  

You’re doing such a great job already. Truly! We know this because we know how much you care. From this moment on, take a deep breath and release the expectation to create the “perfect” holiday because the “perfect” holiday is the one you’re experiencing right now with your family.

Sincerely, 

Your friends at Parent Cue