9 Tips to Combat Holiday Stress and Actually Enjoy Yourself as a Parent

Spending hours in the kitchen over a hot stove is not ideal when you have young kids running around (and often asking for your attention every two seconds). Admittedly, I've been there and done that. I took it upon myself to prepare an entire Thanksgiving meal with a 1-year-old waddling around to impress out-of-town friends, and I quickly realized I'd bit off more than I could chew. Between the grocery shopping, prepping, cooking, and parenting, I was beyond exhausted and missed out on half the fun of relaxing and spending time with family and friends. Avoid the hassle and opt for a potluck or order from a local restaurant (there are so many that offer holiday meals!).