So, you know what that means…
Stress, stress, and did I mention stress? If that’s what you’re feeling every single year around the holiday season, then you are not alone. From tailgating in fan-favorite gear, to spooky fall fests around town, and even last-minute dinner gatherings or travel plans, things kick off rather quickly and make for a speedy response just to keep up.
The holiday season is one of the most cheerful and merry times of the year—at least for me—but can also be a very overwhelming period of our lives where we feel most committed to doing and being all things to serve and bring joy to others. Oftentimes, we can feel empty or mentally impacted from exhaustive attempts to celebrate and end the year with a bang. But who doesn’t crave some good ‘ole pleasantly-spiced recipes (pulled out once a year), extravagant decorations, drives through neighborhoods scouting out beautiful lights dancing excitedly, last-minute gift ordering, and the curious pleasure of ripping open boxes with amazement.
If you unintentionally backslide or just don’t feel up to checking off your to-do list with glee, just know that life will go on with or without the perfect holiday blueprint to complete the busiest quarter of the year.
Whatever your plans, be sure to check in to celebrate you. The holiday season—Halloween through New Year’s Day, in my book—is a wonderful time of year where we pay-it-forward in being intentional with spreading joy and laughter. Why? Because, we have so much to be thankful for and this is a time to share that message, if even to a stranger in passing. If all goes as planned, that’s great. If not, that’s great. The point of these moments is to feel exceptionally enthusiastic about being in this world with a purpose and making lifelong memories.
In this issue of Memphis Parent, we hope to spread a little love and cheer through our journey of stories celebrating family, honoring traditions—new and old—sharing a different take on holiday recipes that are fun and festive, and giving gifts that are meaningful and lasting.
Cheers to good weather and adventure this fall. Wishing you and your families a joyous holiday season and happy New Year!
Later, my friends!
— Erika Cain, Editor