5 Ways to Reduce Holiday Stress as a Moms

 

 

 

5 Ways Mothers Can Reduce Holiday Stress

As the holiday season continues and we are entering into a new year sometimes this can also bring about stress and overwhelm, especially for mothers. Balancing the spiritual significance of the season with the demands of festivities requires intentional effort. Here are five practical strategies to help mothers navigate the holidays with a sense of peace and joy.

1. Prioritize Your Relationship with God:

In the midst of holiday preparations, it's crucial to carve out time for the Lord. Engage in reading the word of God, prayer, or attend church services to reconnect with the true meaning of Christmas. By placing faith at the forefront, the season becomes a time of reflection and gratitude rather than a hectic race. {Please know that we are aware that Jesus was not born on December 25th}.

2. Simplify Your Traditions:

Review family traditions and consider simplifying or modifying them to align with your values. Focus on activities that bring genuine joy and meaning, steering away from the pressure to conform to societal expectations. Remember we are not to conform to this world but be transformed by the renewal of our minds. By streamlining traditions, you create space for more meaningful moments.

3. Delegate and Seek Help:

You don't have to do it all alone. Embrace in community and ask for help when needed. Delegate tasks such as cooking, decorating, or shopping to family members, friends, or your church community. Shared responsibilities not only alleviate the burden but also foster a sense of togetherness.

4. Set Realistic Expectations:

One of the significant sources of holiday stress is the pursuit of perfection. Whew, it took me years to free myself from this. Set realistic expectations for yourself and your family. Understand that imperfections are part of the joy of the season. It's perfectly okay to say no to certain commitments to preserve your peace and focus on what truly matters.

5. Schedule "Me Time" and Rest:

Among the hustle and bustle, prioritize self-care. Schedule time for yourself to recharge and indulge in activities that bring personal joy and relaxation. Ensure you get enough rest, maintain a healthy sleep schedule, and remember that taking care of yourself enables you to better care for others, especially your children.

This holiday season, let's shift our focus from chaos to peace. By embracing these strategies, Mothers can create a more meaningful and enjoyable experience for their families. Remember, it's not about perfection but about cherishing the moments that truly matter with family!

As you navigate this holiday season, we invite you to share your own tips and experiences in finding peace among the festivities. Join our community and connect with other Christian mothers on the journey to a more meaningful and joyful holiday season. Together, let's celebrate the true spirit of Christmas. Click here to join our community now.

What to Wear for Your Fall Family Photos

 

Fall is a season of warmth, vibrant colors, and cozy moments, making it the perfect time for a family photo-shoot. If you're a mom blogger preparing to capture the essence of autumn with your loved ones, choosing the right outfits is key to creating timeless memories. In this blog post, we'll explore seven tips to help you and your family look effortlessly stylish during your fall photoshoot, featuring some fantastic finds on Amazon.

1. Coordinate Colors, Don't Match: While matching outfits can be tempting, opt for coordinating colors that complement each other instead. Embrace the rich tones of fall by incorporating warm hues like deep reds, mustard yellows, and earthy greens(which is my all time favorite). This creates a visually appealing and harmonious look for your family.

Amazon Find: Women's Long Sleeve V-Neck Sweater in Burgundy or Cream

2. Layers Add Depth: Fall weather can be unpredictable, so consider layering your outfits. This not only adds depth and interest to your photos but also allows you to adjust to changing temperatures. Think about scarves, cardigans, or stylish jackets that complement your chosen color palette.

Amazon Find: Boy's Plaid Button-Up Shirt with Hooded Vest

3. Texture Matters: Incorporate different textures to add dimension to your photos. Consider fabrics like knit, denim, or faux fur for a cozy and visually appealing touch. Textured accessories, such as a statement belt or chunky scarf, can elevate your look without overpowering it.

Amazon Find: Kids' Cable Knit Sweater

4. Accessorize Thoughtfully: Accessories can make or break an outfit. Choose accessories that enhance the fall theme, such as wide-brimmed hats, leather boots, or statement jewelry. Be mindful not to overdo it – a few well-chosen accessories can go a long way.

Amazon Find: Women's Wide Brim Wool Fedora Hat

5. Consider Your Setting: Think about the location of your photoshoot and let it inspire your outfit choices. If you're surrounded by nature and foliage, earthy tones may work best. In an urban setting, you might opt for more modern and streamlined looks. Tailoring your outfits to the environment ensures a cohesive and visually pleasing result.

Amazon Find: Kid’s Fit Corduroy Pants

6. Timeless Classics Never Fail: When in doubt, stick to timeless classics. Pleated pants, crisp denim, neutral sweaters, and well-fitted blouses never go out of style. These pieces can be easily mixed and matched, ensuring a cohesive and polished look for your family.

Amazon Find: Women's Classic Pleated Wide Leg Pants

7. Comfort is Key: While style is important, comfort should not be overlooked. Ensure that you and your family feel at ease in your chosen outfits, especially if you have little ones. Happy and comfortable family members will radiate genuine joy in your photos.

Amazon Find: Kids' Fleece-Lined Leggings

As a mom blogger, fall family photo shoots are an opportunity to create beautiful, lasting memories. By following these tips and exploring the suggested Amazon finds, you can confidently showcase your family's unique style while embracing the warmth of the fall season. So, gather your loved ones, dress in style, and let the beauty of autumn unfold in your family photos.

After School Activities for Kids

 

As a single mom, finding creative and educational after-school activities for your kids can sometimes feel like a juggling act and I know it can be tempting to give your toddler an electronic device. One thing I’ve learned in this journey of motherhood is, you want to keep them engaged, entertained, and learning, all while managing your household. But fear not, I'm here to help! I've put together a list of 15 fantastic after-school activities that you and your little ones can enjoy right in the comfort of your home.

1. Art and Craft Adventures: 

Gather some art supplies and watch your child's creativity blossom. Whether it's drawing, painting, or crafting, this activity is a wonderful way to encourage self-expression and imaginative thinking.

2. Reading Fun: 

Create a cozy reading nook with a comfy chair and a stack of books. Reading time not only fosters a love for literature but also provides a quiet and peaceful atmosphere for bonding.

3. Kitchen Helper: 

Invite your child to join you in the kitchen for some cooking or baking. It's an excellent opportunity to teach them valuable life skills while having loads of fun.

4. At Home Science Lab: 

Turn your home into a science lab with simple experiments. Spark their curiosity and fascination for the world around them.

5. Gardening Helper: 

Nurture an appreciation for nature by starting a mini-garden or becoming a plant mom. Whether it's a few potted plants or a small outdoor garden, kids can learn about responsibility and the wonders of growth.

6. Jam Session: 

Introduce your child to the world of music with lessons in playing instruments like the piano, guitar, or even singing. You might have a budding musician on your hands!

7. Dance Session: 

Set up a dance space and let your little one groove to their heart's content. Dancing promotes physical fitness and self-expression.

8. At-Home Exercise: 

Share the benefits of physical fitness through kid-friendly exercise routines. It's a fantastic way to keep them active and healthy.

9. Board Games: 

Stimulate their minds with classic board games, puzzles, or even chess. These games enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

10.Bible Venture:  

Explore the bible in a new way by making the bible stories interactive. One of my favorite things is to open up the bible app that has several resources for children. This makes learning the basics stories both educational and enjoyable.

11. Language Lessons: 

Expand your child's horizons by introducing them to a new language. You can utilize apps and online resources to make the process engaging, interactive and even you picking up a new language. 

12. Nature Scavenger Hunts: Unleash their inner explorer with fun and educational scavenger hunts. Whether indoors or outdoors, these adventures offer a unique way to discover the beauty of the world.

13. Play Doh Session:

Create an area on the table or floor using plain white paper where your child can use their imagination to enhance their creative learning skills.

14. Photography Fun: 

Teach your little one the basics of photography using a simple camera or smartphone. You'll be amazed at the unique perspectives they capture.

15. Explore Lovevery: Have fun with physics by using Lovevery's 'The Play Guide' modular wooden ramp set. Encourage your child to make predictions about what will happen. This set has helped improve my son's building and critical thinking skills.You can find all of their play guides using the link here

Single moms, remember that spending quality time with your kids while engaging in these after-school activities can create lasting memories and foster their growth. These activities aren't just fun; they're opportunities to connect, educate, and inspire. So, whether it's art, science, or a culinary experiment, you've got this! Enjoy the journey of learning and growing together.