This time of year can be chaotic, with longer shopping lists, extra cooking, parties, family get-togethers, and other obligations piling up. While you’re preparing for the holiday flurry, remember to take some time to reflect on the year behind you, your goals ahead, and the magical moments soon to come.
In our November/December double issue, local writer and mom Carlissa Shaw shares her tips for managing holiday anxiety in “Finding Balance.” Did you burn the holiday dinner rolls? That’s okay. Cut yourself some slack. And amid the stressful planning and prepping, make time to relax. If you aren’t allowing yourself rest, you won’t have the energy to truly be present for the good stuff — quality time with family and friends.
Of course, no holiday season is complete without the fun and excitement of gift-giving, and boy do the littles love their toys. We’ve compiled a roundup of some cool stuff we’ve come across — unicorns! robots! dragons! — for our 2019 Toy Guide. Happy shopping!
While you’re shopping for the smaller kids, though, remember to consider their age and skill level when choosing a gift. Some toys can be unsafe or inappropriate for the child, so do a little research first. In “Play it Safe," Megan Robinson, toy buyer at The Knowledge Tree, weighs in on safe toy tips — and tells us the types of toys that are in right now — to help steer you in the right direction.
Do keep in mind that toys are passing fancies. New desires will always come, and material things are just that — things. While a thoughtful gift — or the coolest new gadget for the kids — is a nice gesture, don’t forget what really matters. (And make sure your children understand this, too.) During this season of giving, the most important gift you can give to loved ones is yourself, your time, and your attention. Time is fleeting, and your presence may very well be the best present.