Being a mom, particularly during pregnancy and the first few years is challenging enough on its own- adding the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can push us over the edge! The magic and joy of the season easily gets lost under the extra stress most moms feel at this time of the year. Here are a few tips to reduce the stress and increase the joy this holiday season.

A quick internet search reveals a history of why Labor Day is held the first Monday of September in the US (and Canada). However, I like to think it may have something to do with the fact that September is the most common month for giving birth!

That said, as we approach the holidays, let’s not ignore the elephant in the room. Staying in a place of gratitude can be really challenging when the responsibility of cooking a huge meal for twelve is solely on your shoulders. Or when you feel obligated to spend thousands of dollars and a ton of sanity flying the family across the country to see the in-laws (as delightful as they may actually be). Or when Aunt Em is demonstrably offended by your vegetarianism as she passes the turkey. (It’s not personal, Aunt Em! Really!) Or your brother who just can’t get enough of