How to Get Into the Holiday Spirit When You’re Not Feeling It
Did you ever notice how the holidays seem to sneak up like an over-eager houseguest? One minute you’re minding your own business, and the next, every store is blaring carols and someone on your street has installed enough lights to power a small town. Meanwhile, I’m standing there wondering where all this cheer is coming from and whether I missed a memo.
If you’re not quite in the spirit, you’re in very good company. Some years, it all feels easy. Other years, the pressure, the expectations, and the relentless “magic of the season” messaging just land differently. It doesn’t mean anything is wrong with you. It just means you’re tired. And honestly, who isn’t?
This isn’t about forcing joy. It’s about finding small, quiet moments that still feel comforting, even if the rest of the world seems to be running on gingerbread fumes.
Some Years Are Just Harder
There are years when you can’t wait to deck the halls. Then there are years when the thought of untangling lights feels like a personal attack.
Maybe you’re juggling too much. Maybe the holidays remind you of someone you’re missing. Or maybe you’re just tired. Mentally, emotionally, and physically tired. I know I am.
Whatever the reason, not feeling festive doesn’t make you a Grinch. It makes you human.
The truth is, life doesn’t pause for the holidays. Sometimes the joy takes a little coaxing, and that’s perfectly fine. It’s not about plastering on a smile. It’s about finding small sparks that still feel like you.
Redefine What Festive Means
Somewhere along the line, festive became synonymous with doing the absolute most. Perfectly wrapped gifts. Homemade everything. Themed tablescapes. Coordinated family outfits. (Who started that tradition anyway?)
This year, what if the festive season looked a little simpler? Maybe it’s lighting a candle that smells vaguely like cinnamon rolls. Or buying pre-wrapped gifts and calling it a day. Maybe it’s doing less and actually enjoying more.
If the idea of decorating your whole house makes you want to hide under a blanket, start with one corner. A candle, a vase of greenery, a string of twinkle lights. Done.
For me, it’s the little things. The smell of pine, a quiet evening in fuzzy socks, or hanging out with my grandson. If that’s all the holiday spirit I can muster, it’s enough.
Mood Boosters That Actually Work
The trick to feeling festive when you’re not is to think small. Forget the grand gestures. You’re not auditioning for a holiday movie. You’re just looking for things that make life feel a little softer around the edges.
1. Turn on the Lights (Literally)
Warm lighting is magic. Fairy lights, flameless candles, a glowing lamp. Whatever you’ve got. Keep in mind that this picture is from last year, and I haven’t even started decorating for this year yet.
2. Pick One Festive Outfit Piece
CASHMERE V-NECK SWEATER size M / STRAIGHT-LEG VELVETEEN PANTS IN LEOPARD PRINT size 10 petite
Nothing boosts my mood faster than clothes that feel like an occasion. I don’t mean sequins, unless you love them. I mean something that feels special, like a cashmere wrap or sweater, a velvet blazer, or even a red lip. If all else fails, pajamas count, especially if they’re soft enough to make you cancel plans.
3. Smell Is Powerful
A candle, essential oil, or diffuser can do what a playlist can’t. Scents like pine, clove, or orange instantly set the scene without any effort.
4. Create a Mini Ritual
Maybe it’s watching your favorite movie, sipping hot cocoa at night, or writing cards by hand. Tiny traditions bring a sense of continuity even when everything else feels different.
5. Get Outside
When all else fails, step outside. A brisk walk resets your mood better than any sugar cookie. Bonus points if you admire a few Christmas lights.
Connection Helps
There’s this idea that the holidays are all about togetherness. And they are, in theory. But if large gatherings leave you feeling drained, you’re not obligated to attend every single one.
Instead, choose the connections that feel good. Invite a friend for coffee. Drop off cookies to a neighbor. Send a card to someone who’s had a rough year.
If you’re alone this season, make it intentional. Plan a day you actually want. Cook something indulgent, watch a favorite movie, or spend the day in cozy clothes without an ounce of guilt.
Simplify Everything
If you’re struggling to feel festive, the last thing you need is more pressure. Let’s be honest. Most of us are doing way too much.
Try this instead:
- Skip a tradition. If it doesn’t bring joy, retire it. The family recipe no one actually likes can go.
- Say no more often. A polite “I’ll have to pass this year” works wonders.
- Buy the cookies. The bakery won’t judge you.
- Pick your battles. If the lights go up crooked, consider it character.
The holidays don’t need to be perfect to be meaningful. In fact, the imperfect years often stick with you the most, usually because you learned to let something go.
When the Funk Feels Deeper
If the season feels particularly heavy, please don’t white-knuckle it alone. Sometimes it’s more than a slump. Talk to someone. A friend, a therapist, your doctor. There’s no shame in admitting you need help.
Joy might feel far away, but it’s still possible. It just might look quieter this year, and that’s perfectly fine.
Remember…Festive Isn’t a Competition
The longer I live, the more I’m convinced the holidays are less about cheer and more about pacing. Some years, you glide right in. Other years, you feel like you’re merging onto a highway where everyone else is already going eighty. With cookies.
You don’t have to match anyone’s speed. Let the enthusiastic bakers and décor lovers do their thing. If your contribution this year is lighting a candle and remembering where you hid the gift wrap, that counts in my book.
And honestly, half the people who look wildly festive are probably just as tired…they’re simply better at disguising it with twinkle lights.
So if your holiday spirit shows up late or lightly caffeinated, welcome it anyway.
What’s one small thing that feels doable for you this season… besides hiding until January?
Thank you for posting this Jennifer! Last few years have had challenges but we persevered. For the 2nd year in my life time I did decorate before Thanksgiving BUT kept it simple. That sparked JOY. Now I am ready to have my Tazo Joy hot tea and enjoy some peace in my cozy loungers.
Have a Merry Christmas season!!
Joanne
Thank you for your article and letting me “feel” that whatever I do is “okay” and “enough” …
Loved this post … perfect and timely! Happy Restful & Enjoyable Holidays to you! 🎄
This might be the best posting you’ve done as far as I’m concerned! You described exactly how I feel this year and you did it with such humor! I actually bought a $20 small lighted pine tree at Costco and declared it my decoration for Christmas! 🎄 i was hoping it would help me get in the mood! Thank you for telling me it’s ok! I’ll just drink my coffee & look at my tree!
That sounds perfect!
Your daughter is lovely. I agree that it’s good to keep things in perspective, get outdoors, and relish any time spent with those you love. That’s way more important than how much tinsel you hang! Count those blessings.
With four family birthdays in December before Christmas, it always feels too much and I never feel caught up. It takes the joy away. At 78, I am downsizing a bit more every year but still I eat too much and feel exhausted. As introverts we do not do big parties so that’s some relief. Seasonal things that bring pleasure are the smell of pine boughs, Christmas carols playing, soup simmering on the stovetop, walks in the crispy air, and the delight of our small grandchildren.
First there is Thanksgiving to survive. I am mostly vegetarian but cooking Turkey and all the fixings tomorrow.
Timely post jennifer. Got down my holiday mugs and my morning coffee feels cozier 😊. One string of fairy lights on the mantle is instant magic. Now to pull out a holiday sweater. Or two.
Hi Jennifer,
I skip the wrapping paper by purchasing a variety of holiday gift bags in various sizes, and white tissue paper (usually from a discount store). Add some curling ribbon here or there. It’s just so much quicker and easier.
That would be much easier!
Jennifer, thanks for your thoughtful comments. I’ve just finished browsing Scandinavian Christmas magazine, and their customs seem to make so much more sense…..a few white candles, pinecones, fresh wreaths, quiet simplicity. I think that’s what I want this year.
That sounds like a lovely magazine and tradition!
This really stirred emotions in me. I have always loved Christmas. The lights, the tree, music, Holiday movies. But now that I’ve turned 70, of course things are different and nostalgia makes me sad at times. I’m single. I’ve lost my mom, a sister and a brother. My dad is 99. My brother is 66 and our children are not little. And I’ve always been very close to my ex’s family since I was a teen, but of course my in-laws are gone and a sister-in-law and her husband also, and nieces and nephews grown. It’s not the same, but I am the person who makes us keep the tradition, even if its different and simplified. Especially now with a 4 year old granddaughter. So I ask about the menu to get the ball rolling (simple, no turkey for Thanksgiving, but Cornish hens and all the trimmings). My daughter and I will cook together. My ex lost his wife and he will be with us. At Christmas my brother cooks and I do all the decorating at my dad’s house if I’m with them (in another State). Gifts – well, barely anything wrapped anymore. I’ve yielded to gift cards, except for my granddaughter. Everyone wants to buy what they want. So it’s different – very little shopping/wrapping, simplified cooking, a smaller tree, to keep it doable for myself – but it’s continuing with new traditions and being with those people I love and still have in my life. Happy Holidays to all!
Yes, age certainly changes everything and being with those we love is the best part.
You hit this right on. Can relate and appreciate permission to do or NOT to do during this holiday season. Have had too many loses in the last year and a half. . .
I really needed this today, so thank you, Jennifer! I’m recovering from a medical procedure that took a lot more out of me than I anticipated and the idea of doing all the Christmas things we usually do seems overwhelming. I asked hubby yesterday if he’d mind if we didn’t put up the tree this year. He said he didn’t care, so that’s one pressure off. We’ll be spending a few days over Christmas with our son’s family and I’d rather save what little energy I have for fully embracing and enjoying our time with them. I’ll do some simple decorating here at home and bake a couple of favourite Christmas treats, but lighting a candle and curling up on the couch with a soft blanket and a good book seems like a great way to honour the season.
I’m so sorry to hear that. Feel better soon Elaine!
Thank You!! This year all my friends and I have decided no presents. We are all old enough to purchase what we want , but will do a holiday lunch or dinner. I don’t have grandchildren, so there is an entire group that is off the list. Instead I’m donating to a few local gift drives for those who need help for the holidays. Going very light on the decorations..those tote bins are heavy,,,,,Happy Holidays to all…..I think a ferry ride to San Francisco next week, might just help…
That sounds fun
Terrific post that really hits home. This time of year brings melancholy, angst and an uptick in my anxiety. I want to go to bed after Thanksgiving dinner and wake up Jan. 2. I’ve simplified over the years…. But still, as the calendar nears the end of the year, I feel my shoulders tense. Thanks for some laughs….”running on gingerbread fumes”.
“Merging into 80mph traffic… with cookies” 😂🤣
I honestly think you’re doing great! Im only going to be 68 soon and I could never do all the shopping try ons that you do and writing so many days of online content, and away from home trips. If you’re feeling just tired all the time maybe rethink what you can let go so you’ll feel more energetic and happy. As we get older we don’t like admitting we just cant do what we used to do and not be overdoing it. I do find it boring to be home so much but my battery absolutely needs it or I find I keep getting sick with one thing after another. Thanks for all the outfit advice. I do wish they’d normalize one diagnostic test for older people and that’s the echo for the cardiac arteries. Anytime someone feels overly tired once they get older a possibility is plaque in the arteries slowing blood flow. They won’t routinely check this tho. You gave to ask specifically if we can check this due to unusual fatigue. I’ve had 3 friends find this out in the last couple of years.
Hi Jennifer,
Thanks for addressing this topic in such a thoughtful way. Your suggestions are timely and appreciated. There was a time earlier in life when I could not face all the holiday dinners with family (hosted or visiting–it seemed like every other day) and ‘holiday-time off work’ loomed like more work! I don’t mind travelling solo, so every so often I would opt-out and travel, discovering that NYC, DC, Costa Rica, etc. were low on tourist pressure at that time of year. Although some venues were closed, I didn’t mind and have fond memories of these adventures.
Best wishes for this week’s day of Thanks.
Beautiful photo of you and your daughter. She is lovely. These notes are a great reminder to slow down and smell the pine. To enjoy the sm special things. Thank you.
I can’t tell you how grateful I am for this post. I’m not “feeling it” and tbh, I haven’t in several years. Sometimes we need to give ourselves permission to feel whatever it is we’re feeling. Feelings are neither right or wrong…..they just are. Thank you, Jennifer, for reminding us that holiday spirit isn’t a one size fits all.
Wishing you a peaceful, loving holiday season! 🤗❤️
Thanks for being here with us!
First time listener! Always good to be reminded of the many ways to seek mindfulness. Will use some of the suggestions this Holiday season!
Really nice article Jennifer. Love the photo of you and your daughter. You both look so happy. I wanted to let you know I purchased those leopard velveteen pants from Talbots and I love them. Comfortable, flattering fit and so soft. Thanks for that recommendation, as they would have never been on my radar. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
That’s awesome. Happy Thanksgiving Lea Ann
Your post hit home with me today! Thanks for your tips and encouragement! Have a beautiful holiday season.
Great suggestions. I host Thanksgiving for my family. There will be around 17 counting the little ones. I haven’t been looking forward to all the work involved, but you reminded me to take it slow, take time for myself and it will all be fine!.
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!
The retailers have taken advantage of us (and we’ve allowed it) in making us feel like we just gotta have it and have it now. Black Friday keeps getting earlier and earlier. I was in a store this morning to pick up a few things for my kitchen and it quite honestly looked like Christmas threw up all over everything. This certainly takes away the feeling of Joy and Peace on Earth. And what happened to Thanksgiving??
Agree!
I know the older I get the more I eliminate things that will hardly be missed. I don’t decorate as much even though I do love it but I hate putting it all away. We even bought a smaller tree this year. We are still doing everything just not quite so much. My grandkids are getting older and mostly just want gift cards or money. So maybe this year I won’t be so worn out!
Hopefully you won’t get so worn out. It can be so exhausting
I wish the US would move Thanksgiving to October like in Canada. Give Christmas a little “breathing room”. We are bombarded with messages to buy, buy, buy! It all feels a little overwhelming. I crave a quieter, more meaningful holiday. So, my solutions – I give cash. Hopefully the receiver buys something they really want. I shop local. I picked up beautiful candles at a Christmas Market sponsored by a local charity. I have a holiday calendar. Each day I designate a single task, i.e. buy the garland. Have a joyful holiday however, whatever you celebrate!
A small table tree with fairy lights and little handmade ornaments made by grandchildren that have since grown up and gone their own way. A couple of wreaths we have had for many years that I added fairy lights and new bows to last year. Our nativity set is vintage because I bought it 30 years ago. I have four movies I bring out and watch every year. We have not had snow yet which is several weeks late here in rural southern Colorado. It is finally getting cooler with a high today of 43 degrees but still sunny. We finally got a day of rain two days ago which we really needed. I will be 81 in December and have felt it lately. No one seems to think I look it. Probably thanks to my Finnish heritage and the mile walks a day we do with our dog. I’m grateful to still be alive and healthy. I’m grateful for my healthy and wonderful 84 year old husband always holding my hand and being next to me. Gratitude is the gift I receive and give everyday. Happy holidays everyone!
Such a beautiful sentiment Sydney! Thank you so much for sharing it with us. Gratitude the best gift
I’m not in a festive mood this year. I’m dealing with sciatica right now and just sitting (or standing) hurts. We have no money for gifts this year and I would at least like to get something for my husband and son. Getting old sucks!
You are so bang on with this post!
Sometimes you are so excited to decorate, other times wondering if you really have to. Plus you guys have not yet even had thanksgiving yet and shops are pushing Christmas everywhere.
I just had a full knee replacement two weeks ago and not feeling like a tree is in the picture for this year. Trying to shop on line, but finding lots of things I would like for me- lol.
I also had to purchase the day flower blue sweater- and the sleeveless sweater to match!
Thanks so much for your daily blogs.
Love them !
Leslie in Ontario
What a great post! I love your honesty and practical, timely suggestions.
And the Ann Taylor coat is such a pretty color….wish I was bold enough to wear it.
Great post!
Excellent article. It is good to hear someone say the quiet things out loud and provide some constructive ideas. Thank you for this one.
I find decorating my house puts me in the mood. Those twinkly lights that come on at 4:00 are a happy sight. I plan get together with friends for coffee or lunch. Happy chatter perks me up.
I also plan happy hours at my house with small groups. I used to make all my appies from scratch but now I mostly buy frozen, premade and pop them in the oven. Easy peasy! Add a beautiful charcuterie board and you’re the star. Now all you have to do is pour the wine.
Watching the Grinch movie sets the mood too. You really don’t need all the presents to have a happy Christmas. It’s all about the people who surround you. Wrap them in love!
I hope you get out of your funk soon. Those little grandchildren and Vanessa coming for Christmas will surely do it.
Many psychologist tell us the best way to feel better is to help someone else. I printed a Kindness Advent calendar with a kindness for each day. Very simple: hold open the door; smile at strangers; thank everyone who helps you (barrista, sales clerk, traffic cop); pay for the coffee. I know this elevates my mood!
I love that idea Carol!
This is a post that hit the nail on the head today. I have not been feeling the season and usually have thought about decorating by now, this year not so much. The idea of spending a loud and busy time with 45 people in a single household has me cringing instead of anticipating. My husband loves these things and I would rather stay at home, so that creates a bit of a conflict. I have gone from a Christmas explosion years ago to a much more subtle way of decorating lately and I do like the twinkle lights over the mantle, just not the whole house.
Thank you for your lovely post, and all the comments as well.
I’m an introvert, so I prefer quiet time too
Thank you. Last year as Christmas approached we were in a borrowed travel trailer at MD Anderson looking at treatment straight through the holidays. That really illustrated that a simple Christmas is so so sweet.
Simple is frequently best!
Concentrate your decor. My pumpkin collection covers fall, a few tweaks if you want to highlight Halloween and Thanksgiving stronger. Christmas / Winter is all about trees. After Christmas the ones with stars on top are retired but the snowy ones are out till March. Spring / summer is rabbits, birdhouses and sailboats. I actually look forward to the changeovers!
Great ideas! We have simplified the holidays as now we travel during that time. Away for Christmas and New Year on a cruise the last two years, loved it – but missed our church on Christmas Eve. Going this year a few days after and will be on board for a festive New Year’s Eve. Because of that have not put up the “big tree” in three years. Culled through all the holiday totes and made one called “Basic Christmas”. Ceramic tree, small nativity, some greenery…and it works. Make cookies that we love, not all the ones we used to. Loving this relaxed holiday. May put up the big tree in the future, but for now it makes for a cozy holiday!
This year I purchased a new tree and it’s sparse and only six feet tall-just two pieces to put together. I used a quarter of the already weeded out ornaments I have and no extra garlands and it’s absolutely perfect. My favorite ornaments are front and center and can be admired all day long. A few candles with battery timers and a red throw on the sofa and I’m done.
I loved this post! All your thoughts about appreciating Christmas with what makes you happy is spot on! Have a great Thanksgiving!
Jennifer… You truly are an amazing writer! Your metaphors and similes are phenomenal, and so very expressive. You always bring a smile to my face…thank you for that! Is writing in your background?
My dad was a writer, and of course my brother is a writer. I dabble 🙂
Hi Jennifer! Thank you for these beautiful words! So wise! I gave up making a family letter and stuffing it into over a hundred cards a few years back. Was no longer fun to do by myself, cost a fortune and we got very few in return anyway. No one has ever mentioned missing it and one less thing to do. Relief! Thanks also for your blog. I look forward to reading it each time it appears in my inbox. May your holidays be peaceful, warm and filled with those you love! ❤️
Happy holidays!
Jennifer, I can’t tell you how much this post resonated with me. I got a little teary just reading it because I recognized myself. Thank you for your wise words and for always being so authentic. Your blog has become my refuge. Have a restful Thanksgiving.
I’m so glad and thankful that you’re a member of our community! Happy Thanksgiving
This is one of your best posts ever! I share many of your feelings about the holiday season. Every year it seems to start earlier and earlier and swallows up Thanksgiving. I believe that all the emphasis on perfection and consumption is bad for our mental health. Thanks for your mood-boost suggestions, I will use them when I feel overwhelmed and drained. I can attest that walking and being in nature is very calming. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Thank you for the reminders and tips today. I love the holidays and I am noticing that I’m putting a lot of undo pressure on myself. With Thanksgiving coming up this week and my desire to decorate for Christmas gnawing at me, I am glad you are reminding me to take a pause to enjoy the small moments.
I am taking one holiday at a time. I am focusing on Thanksgiving now, with pumpkins, fall leaves, wreath, turkey and dressing, and seeing my daughter and husband in Durango in a few days. We will put up tree after Thanksgiving in December, go to a few social gatherings, Christmas Symphony, etc.
I do feel sad at times during holidays, because our Christmases are not like they used to be. My girls don’t live near us, and one is in London with one and only granddaughter. We usually see them in the spring. I miss my parents. My mom died at 59 from cancer, dad 80 cancer. My parents did Christmas with traditions I still do and my girls do as well. We see my husband’s family more because they live a couple of hours away. We do the best we can, and try to focus on the present , not the past.
Have a wonderful holiday taking one day at a time.
Thanks Sue.
I’m sorry to hear you’re in a funk. It’s still early… there’s time ahead to get in the spirit. What helps me the most is shopping for gifts all year long rather than now as it takes off so much pressure. I often ask Alexa to play Christmas jazz whenever I’m cooking or cleaning up… music helps too.
The two things my husband and I gave one another this past Christmas were a whole house water filter and gentle waterfall shower head. Not only does the water taste much better, but my fine hair appreciates both.
This is a wonderfully down-to-earth reminder that we can choose quiet moments rather than be swept along by waves of buying and decorating and baking and whatever. Our community has a non-denominational service of remembrance for those who are missing friends and loved ones; maybe your community also has one. Our senior center and also our hospital each offer a Thanksgiving dinner for those that wish to join others. I’m more of a loner, so a nice cup of tea and a book are really nice, especially if there is a treat baking in the oven.
I’m a bit of a loner myself. I’m just very comfortable in my own company.
Here’s another suggestion to help your heart and spirit. Go to church and worship the King of the universe. Have a grateful heart to the creator and Jesus who forgives your sins. Help someone if you can. That will stir gladness in your heart.❤️
what a wise and timely post. thank you!
What a lovely – and timely! – reminder that we can control the craziness of the holidays. Posts like this are why I look forward to reading your newsletters. Thank you for being a beacon of light for many of us!
Thanks Rachel
Just what I needed today. Love your posts. I am 73 and have experienced everything you have been through, including very thin hair! Keep up your good work. I am sure you have helped many others!
I don’t feel the Christmas holiday vibe until Thanksgiving is cleaned up and put away. This year we are traveling for Thanksgiving. I am packing my two Talbots holiday tees that I have had for years and will wear them Friday and Saturday before we come home. At the least, I hope to spread some cheer to those around me. And that coat!! I love the vibrant color.
It’s wild! I know she’ll look stunning in it.
We have done this to ourselves. Set silly standards that become difficult/impossible to meet. It occurs to me that there is a loneliness epidemic in part because we’ve made organizing a gathering too much of a chore. Some welcoming coziness goes a long way. We don’t need to complete with the famous (infamous?) people who entertain. I vote that we all lower the bar some and enjoy life and each other more!
I vote for that too!!
You are correct! Every year the holiday “must haves” and shopping reminders show up earlier. Eyerolling for sure
I appreciate this post so much! My favorite holiday is Christmas, but with the stores starting earlier and earlier every year, I find that it tends to diminish my joy immensely. One store I went into had most of their Christmas out in August! The longer it is forced upon me, the less joy it gives me. Can we please at least get through Halloween before we begin anticipating Christmas? I have a list of holiday movies that I get excited about watching usually starting early in November. This year, I didn’t want to even think about them until just a few days ago. I’ve watched a couple which have begun to get me in the spirit. Shopping comes later for me each year now as well. I used to be one of those people who had most of it done and wrapped before Thanksgiving. This year I have only purchased one gift so far and it was just because it was something my husband mentioned he wanted. We will still put up our tree the day after Thanksgiving which always helps spark my joy and love for the holiday. Hopefully it will again this year.
Same! I spotted things out in stores in August and rather than excite me, it made me groan.
I needed this post today! I spent yesterday steaming my floors. Company starts arriving today. I’m thinking about asking them to help me hang a large wall clock and climbing up to reach dishes only used for holidays!😂Your humor boosted my spirits
Thank you so much for this thoughtful post that reminds us there is no one way to do the holidays. Do what makes you happy and worry less about what others are doing. Doing less doesn’t mean your a grinch.
Last year I donated our Xmas tree and many ornaments. I bought a tiny tabletop tree and decorated it with small ornaments and lights. Made the entire decorating process much easier. My husband and I like to attend small town Christmas festivities in our area at our leisure. I’ve noticed retailers and advertisers really jumped on the Christmas bandwagon early this year. No wonder one feels frazzled when the Thanksgiving turkey hasn’t even been in the oven! Spending time in nature is a soothing antidote.
Yes!
It’s very hard to get in the Christmas spirit when you broke your foot and in boot. With no weight bearing for a month. I’m usually in the midst of making candies and baking cookies and decorating . And here I am letting everything heal.
I’m so sorry Carol! Take care of yourself.
At 77 I said this is the year everyone gets gift cards; kids and grandkids. And of course I can’t even get into my guest bedroom but it’s exploding with gifts that need to be wrapped. I have to stop lying to myself.
lol! You have lots of energy Beverly.
just what I needed today, Holidays are going to be hard this year, daughter is going through Chemo for breast cancer. I am keeping a smile and happy thoughts on the outside, but the inside it’s just not there. Again thanks for this today. Have a blessed holiday to you and your family.
I’m so very sorry!! Sending prayers and best wishes for both of you. I can’t imagine how very hard this is for you
Harper. Please take care of yourself too!
Thank you! You have said what others seem to avoid. I find myself saying didn’t we just do Christmas. When you said « you are tired ». It hit me, yes I am, this year is a smaller tree so I don’t have to move furniture. I always hated losing my favourite chair for a month. Only baking a couple of things. Not skipping Christmas , right sizing it for me!
Burning ourselves out helps no one!!
Jennifer, I totally agree with your thinking. Every year, the commercial start of the season is earlier; this year some of the big box stores had Christmas trees and other decorations competing with Halloween candy/ decorations. That takes away some of the spirit for me.
We watched a good ole fashion movie (updated with current and talented actors) the other night and it was actually so refreshing to get away from everything for a couple of hours.
My guess is because of technology everyone moves on to the next thing so quickly and doesn’t stop to pause anymore.
I think you’re right!
This is my favorite blog post you’ve ever done. I’ve felt this for many years. Christmas has become just TOO MUCH. My favorite tradition is having my grands come to the house and decorate my tree while they help me bake their favorite Christmas cookie. Two things done and I don’t have to do them. So many people love Christmas. Me? Not so much.
I’m right there with you Sandy
My oldest daughter is not coming to Thanksgiving
We have not had a real conversation in 2 years. No Happy Mother’s Day or Birthday. My heart is broken.
I’m so sorry Kelly! That’s heartbreaking. I pray things will turn around. Even a little bit.
I am having my family for Thanksgiving and then a casual Christmas – New Year get together. Our parents are long gone and in past years stood by the grave of two younger siblings. Death does not know an age, I am too aware of that, but as we do get older death is closer. I find spending time far more important as the years seem to move faster.
I found todays topic hitting home hard this year. I do not know why, but it is a “down” year for me. I suspect our gloomy fall weather has had something to do with it. Others are also commenting on the lack of sunny days here in Pennsylvania where I live. Maybe we’ll have a cold sunny winter? One can hope!
Happy Thanksgiving!
I’m feeling my age pretty intensely these days and it’s sobering. It sounds silly and obvious, but time is our most precious commodity. Happy Thanksgiving.
Jennifer, I’m feeling the same way this year. Thanks for your much needed post. ❤️
Jennifer- what a thoughtful post! Our most memorable Christmas was the year we lost power for 14 days & it was restored on 12/23. 4 teens, mom & dad and sister and husband arriving and only a jar of mustard in the fridge. I said like the grinch “ it came without whistles, it came without bells’ but the holiday was every bit as wonderful- maybe better- even our teens pitched in to help that year! Happy Thanksgiving
We would have been married 35 years this holiday season. My late husband passed 5 years ago. The kids have partners, grateful for that. No grandchildren. I decided to travel to Paris for a few days. Just to see the Christmas lights and markets. Figured something different would spark better conversations.
Have a wonderful trip!