10. When Christmas Doesn’t Feel So Merry

“It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” Or at least that’s what we’re being told on commercials, social media, and pretty much anywhere else we look. But what happens when it’s Christmas time, and you’re feeling anything but merry? In today’s episode, we are here to normalize and validate your feelings if this time of year doesn’t always feel as magical as you think it should. Christmas can often bring out the really hard stuff, especially for vulnerable families. As Foster and Adoptive parents, we put pressure on ourselves to give these children the Christmas that they may have never experienced, sometimes at the expense of our own mental health. We are here today to say that it is okay to say ‘no’ to things that are unrealistic for your family this holiday season. It’s time to focus on the real reason we celebrate Christmas. And as always, we will offer you our experiences and practical tips on surviving the holidays, even when you are in the midst of a struggle. Just remember..You are enough. You are doing enough. Your kids will remember your presence - not their presents. Episode Highlights: When Christmas Doesn’t Feel So Merry Learning to say no and adjusting expectations When Christmas feels heavy Remembering why we celebrate Christmas, to begin withFinding community through the Holiday season Find More on Hope Bridge:Visit Our Website (Find Support Groups Here) Follow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook Foster Our Community Instagram This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.Learn more about Hope for the Journey TBRI TrainingLearn more about Building Trauma-Informed Spaces with Kim Botto