In this blog, we share content creator and mama-of-four Laney Morello's real-world tips on surviving the holidays — from embracing the mess to creating fun traditions, and carving out a little intentional 'me time.'
If we're being real, the holiday season brings more than just good tidings and cheer. Between organizing festive gatherings, crafting family meals, and keeping your little ones polished for the occasion, it can be a lot all at once. Luckily, Laney has all the hilariously relatable tips for embracing the chaos and tapping into that perfectly imperfect holiday magic.
Let's face it: No holiday season goes off without a hitch, but these tips will help you laugh through the mishaps and make the most of the madness... all while creating sweet memories you and the family will cherish.
So, grab a cozy drink — whether it's hot cocoa or a well-deserved glass of wine — and read through her sanity-saving advice for enjoying the season and all it brings.
Master the Art of "Holiday Decor Blindness"
When you find yourself scratching your head at your kids' homemade ornaments that look like a cross between a glue stick massacre and a glitter bomb, flip the script and declare it modern art. After all, Picasso wasn't exactly painting inside the lines, either. And while it may not be ready for the Guggenheim, your little one's creations are perfect in their own unique way! Hang them with pride and let your tree sparkle in all its kooky glory. We can all agree it's the love and laughter behind each art project that truly matters!
Featured Styles: Fireside Plaid Two-Piece Pajama Set and Zippy
Holiday Hide-and-Seek
When the guests are about to arrive, your sugar cookies are still cooling on the rack, and your kids are running around with tinsel in their hair — it's time for a game of hide and seek! (You hide, they seek.) Can you think of a better excuse for carving out a five-minute breather? Pro tip: Hide in the pantry and sneak a bite of the peppermint bark (you know, the one treat they miraculously haven't discovered yet).
Create a Culinary Family Tradition
When we look back on holiday memories, it's the special family traditions that usually stand out. Whether it's baking grandma's famous pie or decorating a gingerbread house that somehow ends up collapsing every year, these are the moments that really stick with us. And creating your own is one of the sweetest joys of parenthood! Set aside a day to let the kiddos unleash their creativity in the kitchen and mix in their favorite ingredients — think chocolate chips, gummy bears, and sparkly sprinkles. It might mean embracing a flour-covered countertop, but just remember: the messier, the merrier!
Featured Styles: Fireside Plaid Two-Piece Pajama Set and Zippy
Capture the "Real" Moments
Every mom knows that capturing that picture-perfect holiday snapshot is usually a pipe dream. When your baby is busy pulling ornaments off the tree and your toddler won't stop twirling in circles (in their Little Sleepies Twirl Dresses, of course), getting the whole crew in the frame is an achievement in itself. So why not embrace the chaos? Instead of striving for a Royals-level shot, let the kids do their thing — make silly faces, strike a fun pose, or sneak into the background with their best ninja moves. The more playful, the better! After all, those authentic moments are bound to spark more conversation hanging on the fridge than an overly posed photo ever could.
Featured Styles: Green Twinkling Trees Two-Piece Pajama Set and Zippy
Practice the "Slow Down" Mindset
Remember to slow down and take a moment for yourself when needed. A little mindfulness goes a long way during the holiday hustle, and even if you can only steal 20 minutes to enjoy your favorite podcast or squeeze in some quick stretches, you'll feel more centered and ready to tackle whatever's next on your list. Let's not forget that the holidays are all about making warm memories that stay in your heart for years to come. Whether it's cozying up on the couch with hot cocoa, watching The Grinch or Home Alone, or taking a quiet walk to look at the snow, encourage your littles to pause and soak in the magic, too!
Blame It on the Elf
Enough said :)
As you navigate the season, remember that it's the little moments — messy or magical — that truly make the season special. So, embrace the imperfections, let the laughter flow, and enjoy every bit of the holiday hustle with your nearest and dearest.
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