I’ll warn you right now, this post is going to be about setting boundaries. If you’re new to this, this might be pretty hard, but remember that firm boundaries and doing what’s best for your tiny family is more important than keeping all your family happy.

 

I hope that you have a wonderfully understanding family on both sides who are flexible, understanding, and laid-back about the holiday, and that you have no anxiety or stress. But if any conditions are stressful for you, here are some general tips.

 

  1. Plan only one thing in a day, and use your baby’s nap times as unmoveable walls.
    Don’t be guilt-tripped into seeing everyone on Christmas. There are lots of days in December. If you need to, decide when you will be at a parent’s or grandparent’s house, and let people on that side of the family decide whether they’ll come to see you or not.

 

  1. Don’t feel guilty if you can’t bring what you used to.
    If your family does potluck-style meals, and you have a baby, you get a bye. Pick up something at the grocery store, or let people know that you’ll be bringing the baby and can’t cook an appetizer too.

 

  1. Focus on the traditions that really matter to you.
    You don’t need to do everything. Just do what is important to you and what is important for you to share with your child.

 

  1. Give yourself permission to relax.
    A holiday is meant to be a rest, so do things that relax you instead of trying to pack in all the things everyone else is doing. Even if you really do want to do them. Lower your expectations for yourself, and let things go.

 

We know you can have a happy and joy-filled holiday season!

Happy Holidays to all of you!