"This Year, The Holidays Look a Little Different – And That’s Okay"

Change can be a little uneasy, can’t it? Especially when it comes to the holidays. This year, I’m swapping the usual twinkling tree and frantic attic raids for something a bit... well, quieter. And while part of me feels a little nostalgic for Holidays past, there’s a bigger part of me (the one that’s sipping her wine in sweatpants right now) that knows this change marks something extraordinary: a job well done.

Yep, this year, my family is all over the map—literally and figuratively—starting their own traditions. And you know what that tells me? That I didn’t just keep them alive all these years (though let’s be honest, that alone is a parenting win). I taught them how to be independent, thoughtful, and capable human beings. So, as they decorate their own trees or toast their new beginnings, I find myself smiling. Not because it’s easy to let go (spoiler: it’s not), but because letting go means I did my job.

This Christmas, Jason and I are doing things our own way, too. No tree. No dragging a lifetime’s worth of ornaments out of storage. No marathon baking sessions or Pinterest-worthy centerpieces that make my back hurt just thinking about them. Even our Christmas card this year was just the two of us – the “new” family unit.

And you know what? It’s still magical. We celebrated early with a cozy toast, a pile of presents on the dining table (because who needs a tree when you’ve got great wrapping paper?), and a big, fat acknowledgment of our blessings. Sure, I got caught in the nostalgia trap for a minute and felt a little sad. But I flipped the script because, honestly, life’s too short to wallow, especially during the holidays.

Here’s what I’ve learned: the magic of Christmas doesn’t come from a perfect tree or an Instagram-worthy mantel. It comes from your mindset. Life is all about perspective, and this year, I’m choosing gratitude. Grateful for my family, near and far. Grateful for the memories we’ve made. And excited for the new ones we’re starting—Jason and me, our grown kids, and the lives we’re all building.

If your holidays are looking a little different this year, too, here’s what I want you to know:

1. You’re not alone. Really. It’s okay to feel a little lost when traditions change.
2. Nostalgia is a gift. Hold onto those sweet memories. Let them warm your heart and remind you of the love and joy you’ve created over the years.
3. New traditions are just waiting to be born. They don’t have to be Pinterest-perfect. They just need to make you smile.

Here are a few simple ideas to get you started on creating your own holiday traditions:

• Start small. A special breakfast, a new movie marathon, or a unique gift exchange theme can all set the stage for lasting memories. (Jason and I vote for comfy matching pajamas and champagne.)
• Write it down. Create a holiday journal to jot down memories, recipes, or funny stories from this year. Imagine your future self flipping through it with a big grin.
• Focus on the little joys. A cup of hot cocoa, a cozy fire, or a heartfelt chat with a loved one can make the season feel just as special.
• Do something for others. Bake cookies for a neighbor or donate to a local charity. Nothing lifts the holiday spirit like giving back.

At the end of the day, the Holiday Season is what you make of it. It’s about love, gratitude, and finding joy—whether it’s in a house full of family or a quiet toast with your favorite person. This year, my holidays look a little different, but that’s okay. Actually, it’s more than okay. It’s beautiful.

So here’s to letting go, looking forward, and finding joy wherever you are. Happy holidays, from my changing, evolving, perfectly imperfect family to yours. 🎄