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Christmastime is here… How is it possible that another holiday season is coming to a close? When I was a girl, it felt like the days, weeks, and months leading up to Christmas dragged on and on, but now the years fly by faster than I like. While this is a beautiful time of year, I know it can be stressful and challenging, so I want to check in.
How are you doing?
I know that things are supposed to be merry and bright, but if they aren’t, for whatever reason, I want you to know that you are not alone.
Is this your first Christmas without someone very special?
Are the rising prices of literally everything wreaking havoc on your finances?
Maybe you are dealing with family stress that you wish would resolve itself already.
Whatever is going on, I want you to know I see you, which is why I wrote this – for you.
To My Fellow Devoted Grandma, Time sure does have a way of sneaking up on us. It seems like only yesterday when our kids were anticipating the birth of Jesus and the arrival of Santa, and now it is our grandkids. One day, we were kids ourselves marveling over the oranges and candy canes in our stockings, and now we are grandmas. It doesn't seem possible. When we were kids, the holidays were carefree and magical. While much of this feeling remains, the holidays - though filled with joy and love - can also bring its fair share of challenges and stress. That's why I want to ask, how are you really doing this Christmas? Amidst the hustle and bustle, the baking, and the wrapping, have you stopped to check in with yourself? Maybe you're facing this Christmas with a heart heavy from loss, missing a beloved face that once lit up your holidays. Or, perhaps you have long-distance family members who will miss the holidays. It could be that family dynamics, as complex as they are, have added an extra layer of tension to your holiday preparations. If any of this rings true, I want you to know that you are not alone. It's okay if your Christmas isn't picture-perfect – life sure isn't! What's important is that you give yourself grace and space to feel whatever it is you're feeling. If you're feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or stressed, reach out. Talk to a friend, a family member, or even me through this letter. Sharing our burdens can lighten them, and sometimes, a listening ear is the best gift we can receive. In case you need the reminder (as I sometimes do), our worth as grandmas isn't measured by the lavishness of our gifts or the perfection of our holiday feasts. Our true value lies in the love we give and the comforting presence we provide. This Christmas, amidst the gift-giving and merry-making, take time for yourself. Savor a quiet moment with a cup of tea, lose yourself in a favorite holiday movie, or bask in the joy of your grandkids' laughter. Remember to cherish these small, precious moments that make the holiday season meaningful. I pray your Christmas is filled with warmth, peace, and love. Whether it's a quiet holiday or a bustling one, know you're doing an incredible job. Your strength, love, and resilience make this season magical for your family. God bless, and Merry Christmas From Your Friend, Devoted Grandma.
I hope you can find some solace in this letter. If you felt this letter spoke to you, please take a deep breath and slowly let it out. You are an incredible grandmother and human, and I pray that you have a holiday season that is just like you.
