Let’s face it—being a mum is like running a 24/7 life admin service. You’re juggling packed lunches, endless school clubs, homework, snacks (so many snacks), and making sure that the elusive PE kit actually makes it to school on the right day. It’s basically the Olympics of multitasking. And then… Christmas comes hurtling towards us like a tinsel-covered freight train.
The Mental Load Hits Overdrive
Suddenly, your already maxed-out brain has to level up. It’s no longer just “What day is the PE kit needed?” but “Who needs a Christmas card?” Cue remembering your second cousin once removed because she’s had a hip replacement, and a card would really make her day. Then there’s the whole minefield of family politics—trying to keep everyone happy while silently questioning why you bother every year.
And don’t even get me started on gifts. It’s not just the family; oh no, the kids’ friends are now involved. You’re standing in the toy aisle, clutching a pack of novelty slime and wondering if you’ve officially lost the plot.
- A little tip- I use a Christmas planner. Knowing I have everything written down and organised, I fins I sleep a bit better! Here is the one I use
Deck the Halls… and Your Instagram
Oh, and of course, your house has to look like a Christmas grotto. Because what’s Christmas without at least one Pinterest-inspired disaster? Fairy lights that refuse to untangle, garlands shedding glitter everywhere, and that one bauble your toddler keeps “redecorating” with questionable taste. But hey, it’s all worth it for the one Instagram picture where the house looks like it came straight out of a Hallmark movie.
And we’ve not even mentioned The Elf on the Shelf……The less said in that the better, but I do secretly enjoy it! It’s her face in the morning that I live for! If you haven’t heard of it, please let me know in the comments. I’d happily bring you into the elf world!
A Magical Reminder
But here’s the thing—amid the chaos, I’ve realized something. When I talk to people about Christmas, their eyes light up. That magical feeling of Christmas past? It’s contagious. This week, those warm, fuzzy moments inspired me to take a pause.
Growing up, Christmas in our house was pure magic. Love, laughter, and enough tinsel to make a reindeer jealous. My mum somehow made it all look effortless. (Spoiler: it wasn’t.) So, this year, I’m paying homage to her by recreating a one day (before I go to New York!) only classic ‘90s Christmas. Think Home Alone vibes, the NOW That’s What I Call Christmas CD on repeat, and endless Quality Street wrappers strewn everywhere.
Bringing Back the Magic
The plan? Surprise my siblings with a step back in time for one afternoon. I’ve dusted off the old recipes for festive treats, found some nostalgic decorations online (yes, affiliate link incoming), and stocked up on retro board games. (Anyone else still got their copy of Frustration?) Get the slinky, trolls and GI JOE out and just re create our childhood Christmas capturing it on a polaroid camera- This is the one I bought for the occasion!
And while I’m recreating the magic for my family, I’m also making it for Ava. Sure, the mental load can feel like a sleigh full of bricks, but the memories we’re building? Worth every late-night wrapping session.
Take the Pressure Off
If you’re feeling the mental load this Christmas, take a breath. You don’t have to do everything. Maybe skip the matching PJs photo shoot, the Christmas Eve Box or let the kids decorate their own mini tree (and live with their “creative choices”). The magic isn’t in the Instagram-perfect moments—it’s in the laughs, the love, and the memories you’re creating.
Remember the little things do matter
So here’s to us mums, the unsung Christmas heroes. Pass me the mulled wine—I’ve earned it.
(P.S. If Affiliate links included because, let’s be honest, we deserve all the help we can get.)
Hi Sarah – Yes, I agree that mothers are the unsung hero at every Christmas, or for that matter, every holiday and every other day. The things that you all do for us, our children and grandchildren are truly amazing. I have often joked that I come home and there’s food that has magically been cooked and plated. Or, there is folded laundry in my dresser drawer. I could go on and on. I do try to help but often I find that I get in the way. My wife is very kind and allows me to help and then when I’m not looking, she fixes whatever I messed up when I tried to be of assistance :)! So cheers to you and all the mommies out there who are making a difference for their people. And I wish for you a magical Christmas both before your trip and during your trip. I am curious, about some of those recipes that are family favorites. We also will be doing our annual jammie picture on our staircase. We have done this for years and I believe my children would revolt if we gave up this tradition. What a fun post you penned!
Your wife sounds incredible and definitely someone I’d love to talk to about how she survives through the busy times. I’m making mince pies, trifle and an apple pie! All welcome!
Now I’m incredibly hungry! Thanks so much for your reply and hope you’re having a fantastic and wonderful day!
Hi Sarah, I love the feelings evoked by your post. Children have always loved Christmas and you exemplify that love by creating a magical experience for everybody in your life. It is a busy time and people get burnt out but they need not. I have had my share of busy Christmases, but this year is not one of them. Years ago, my husband would invite people who had no other place to go on Christmas Day. I believe those were the happiest Christmases in his life. Plus, we met characters who had stories to tell and were willing to tell them. Stories are after all, the glue that holds us all together.
My dad is the same. I would be sat around the table not knowing who I was sitting next to or how they ended up in our home but loved that they had somewhere warm to eat their meal. Christmas does bring the magic out doesn’t it? I’d love to know some of your stories.
Hi Sarah,
I absolutely love this! It’s so relatable, being a mom during the holidays really does feel like juggling a million things at once. Your reminder to take a breath and enjoy the moments that really matter is something we all need to hear. The idea of recreating that ‘90s Christmas magic sounds amazing! I hope you and your family have the best time, and thank you for sharing such a beautiful perspective. Yes, you definitely deserve that mulled wine!
Meredith
Meredith Moore recently posted…Crafting Your Welcome & Follow-Up Email Sequence and How to Go About It.
Thank you Meredith. It’s very tough being a mum but SO worth it and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I hope your Christmas isn’t too crazy and you manage to enjoy it.
Hi, Sarah!
I would love to be a fly on the wall at your retro Christmas party. I can hear the laughter! We are putting up our tree to Christmas movies today, and I am so looking forward to it! Christmas is a magic time, and I’ve gotten the impression you are a mom who makes all times special for Ava. I look forward to hearing about your Christmas!
Nakina
Thanks Nakina, We stepped back in time with our Christmas today. We had the best fun! We’re full of love and laughter. Thank you
Mums are certainly the unsung heros at Christmas. My wife does a lot for us. We are empty nestors at this point in life and have to decide what we want to decorate and what we don’t. Your blogs are very engaging and relatable.
Thank you Scott! I’s like to think I will still decorate when we have an empty nest but I’m sure less rubbish will be around the house with all the chaos!