This is a great reminder, and I LOVE all your ideas for the cosiest staycation! I am exhausted from ensuring the holiday cheer is felt around the house.
This line is sooooo relatable “and leave impressive trails of detritus (mugs, shoes, dirty socks) all through the house…” my teens too!🤦🏻♀️ I love your list and it’s got me thinking about my list…thank you!
The table decor photos! So inspiring! And truly such a good item on the holiday to-do list.
I have definitely been in the overwhelmed camp, but I am trying to lean into the things I'm good at, and just let that be enough. I'm not a crafter and I don't love baking, and usually I feel bad for my kids missing out that. But they don't even notice because I am passionate about driving around and looking at Christmas lights while blasting the holiday tunes, and I've learned that they think that's magical. Happy Christmas Amelia!
I love looking at Christmas lights so much that I used to take bus tours around my hometown (in my 20s!!!!!!) to see them! The funny thing about kids is that they don't remember much at all - just a few random highlights of their childhood. Remember that!!
The story about how your daughter found out who was behind Santa's gifts was so sweet! I love this list of activities and have never missed having a fireplace more in my life. I hope you have a wonderful holiday break.
Awww, that's one of my parenting highlights! Growing up in Australia, where we had a very hot December, I fantasized about sitting by a fireplace with snow coming down outside! We don't often get the snow but I can light a fire! Happy holiday to you, Maddie!
Love "last minute soiree" concept! My kids are 8 and 9, but I've been leaning into the school-aged-kids version of "chillest holiday season as possible, while still doing what seems fun to each of us." For me that means no big parties (attending or hosting) but a couple 1 other family get togethers (one at a pizza place, once something very easy at our house). No holiday cards. I told my kids I want to chill and read as much as possible, so we're stopping at the library after school today so they have plenty of reading material.
It sounds like your kids like to read too, which makes for some cozy family time! And the last minute soirée idea should help counteract my urge to make everything perfect! Happy holidays!
I love this list. We always do a staycation and after the madness of December I so look forward to it! As far as shows to rewatch Mrs. Maisel is our “comfort show” and we probably rewatch at least once a year!
this is awesome! You know what else is aw some, though? Her son’s YouTube channel!!! PauseDaEditor!!!
Have a lovely break 🎄
Thank you! And to you! ❤️
This is a great reminder, and I LOVE all your ideas for the cosiest staycation! I am exhausted from ensuring the holiday cheer is felt around the house.
You're going to have a great break!
This line is sooooo relatable “and leave impressive trails of detritus (mugs, shoes, dirty socks) all through the house…” my teens too!🤦🏻♀️ I love your list and it’s got me thinking about my list…thank you!
The annual trailing of detritus has already commenced! Happy holidays to you!
The table decor photos! So inspiring! And truly such a good item on the holiday to-do list.
I have definitely been in the overwhelmed camp, but I am trying to lean into the things I'm good at, and just let that be enough. I'm not a crafter and I don't love baking, and usually I feel bad for my kids missing out that. But they don't even notice because I am passionate about driving around and looking at Christmas lights while blasting the holiday tunes, and I've learned that they think that's magical. Happy Christmas Amelia!
I love looking at Christmas lights so much that I used to take bus tours around my hometown (in my 20s!!!!!!) to see them! The funny thing about kids is that they don't remember much at all - just a few random highlights of their childhood. Remember that!!
The cornflakes wreaths are my favorite! Tip to make them even easier to make, use a mini donut pan to shape them.
love that tip! we struggle to get the shape right every year - and we have donut pans - thank you!
The story about how your daughter found out who was behind Santa's gifts was so sweet! I love this list of activities and have never missed having a fireplace more in my life. I hope you have a wonderful holiday break.
Awww, that's one of my parenting highlights! Growing up in Australia, where we had a very hot December, I fantasized about sitting by a fireplace with snow coming down outside! We don't often get the snow but I can light a fire! Happy holiday to you, Maddie!
Love "last minute soiree" concept! My kids are 8 and 9, but I've been leaning into the school-aged-kids version of "chillest holiday season as possible, while still doing what seems fun to each of us." For me that means no big parties (attending or hosting) but a couple 1 other family get togethers (one at a pizza place, once something very easy at our house). No holiday cards. I told my kids I want to chill and read as much as possible, so we're stopping at the library after school today so they have plenty of reading material.
It sounds like your kids like to read too, which makes for some cozy family time! And the last minute soirée idea should help counteract my urge to make everything perfect! Happy holidays!
Message received! Setting a festive table right now!
Best thing I've read all December. I'm inspired to sit down and set some (high-mostly low) goals.
So glad you're inspired! Happy holidays!
Sweatpants and Sparkles?! GENIUS. 🤯 So excited for the new name…!
I really do love naming things - makes anything seem more special if it has a name!!!!
Let’s compare notes on Babygirl in the new year
Yes! The trailer had me holding my breath with anxiety! But I really want to see it!
Love this list. And thanks for the recs. Starting Black Doves tonight!!
It's a little nutty but I enjoyed it! Never seen Keira Knightley in an action role before!
You are my favorite writer on Substack! Thank you for this, and all your warm, smart, kind work
You just made my day, Anne! Thank you so much for reading and for taking the time to write to me. Enjoy the holiday season! Amelia
This all sounds great to me, Amelia! Happiest of holidays to you and your lovely family! ❤️
And you too, Jolene! And especially your month of relaxation in Jan!
I love this list. We always do a staycation and after the madness of December I so look forward to it! As far as shows to rewatch Mrs. Maisel is our “comfort show” and we probably rewatch at least once a year!
Mrs Maisel is the best! The clothes and NY scenery. I am obsessed with their apartments, too!
Love love love this list
So glad! Started How to Solve Your Own Murder and am really enjoying it so far!
I just got an early copy of the sequel and am very excited.
Woohoo! I can imagine How to Solve Your Own Murder as a movie!