From Grinch to Christmas Enthusiast: Embracing the Holiday Magic with my Little Minnows

When I was younger, Christmas wasn’t exactly my favorite time of year. Honestly, I dreaded it. 😬 Between navigating tricky family dynamics with not-so-friendly cousins and the weight of being the oldest girl in a big family (hello, responsibilities 👋), the holiday season felt more like a checklist than a time for joy. I wasn’t the whimsical Cindy Lou Who; I was more like the Grinch—minus the redemption arc. 😂

But things have changed. Becoming a mom has completely transformed how I see Christmas. 🌟

Now, experiencing the holidays through my kids' eyes is nothing short of magical. Watching them marvel at twinkling lights, hearing their laughter as we share traditions, and feeling their uncontainable excitement has turned my Grinch-like heart into a warm, Christmas-red one. ❤️✨

Our Favorite Holiday Traditions 🎁

One of the highlights of the season is our annual trip to Christmas Card Lane in Rancho Penasquitos. If you’ve never been, trust me, it’s a must-see! Picture a neighborhood adorned with dazzling lights, fun decorations, photo opportunities, and the best holiday scenes—you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into a snow globe. ❄️ Add in a warm peppermint mocha (my holiday fuel ☕️), the crisp December air, and maybe even a hint of snow, and it’s a moment of pure magic.

Speaking of snow, my relationship with it is complicated. I spent four years in Wyoming, where snow was more about icy roads and blizzard mornings that made getting to work a challenge. 🥶 But when it comes to the holidays? Snow takes on a whole new charm. There’s something so special about the quiet beauty of snowflakes falling during Christmas.

Focusing on What Matters Most

This year, Christmas looks a little different. My kids have grown, and they’re officially too old to believe in Santa (cue the bittersweet sigh 😢), but the magic is still very much alive. This year, we’re shifting our focus from gifts to experiences.

Here’s what we’re doing:

✨ Letters to Santa—With a Twist! The kids wrote their letters to Santa, listing what they want and what they need. (You can grab our free Santa Letter Template below!). I’ll choose one thing from each list to fulfill.

✨ Quality Family Time! When I asked my kids how they wanted to celebrate, their answer was simple but heartwarming: family Monopoly night. 🃏 We’re trading the rush of the holiday season for slow, meaningful moments filled with laughter and togetherness.

✨ Thoughtful Choices! My middle child had the most touching idea—since it’s my year to have the kids during the holidays, she decided to spend the season with her dad in Arizona to reconnect and recharge. 💕 Her thoughtfulness is a reminder that the holidays are about self-care and giving, too.

The True Meaning of Holiday Joy 🎄

For me, Christmas is no longer about picture-perfect decorations or the pressure of meeting high expectations. It’s about love, connection, and creating meaningful memories with my family.

What are your favorite holiday traditions? Is there something special you do to make the season feel extra magical? I’d love to hear about the moments that make your holidays shine! ✨💌

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Free Santa Letter Template 🎅

Keep the magic alive with our simple, fun Letter to Santa Template! This activity is perfect for teaching kids to balance their wants and needs—while giving Santa’s helpers a head start. 😉

How to Use:

1. Share basics like name, age, and favorite things.

2. Write one thing they want and one thing they need.

3. Include sizes for the perfect fit!

   
   

🎁 Download the Template Here and enjoy a festive family moment together.

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Wishing you and your loved ones a holiday season filled with laughter, joy, and love. From my family at Mermaid Kove to yours—Happy Holidays! 🎄💙

Waves of love,

Tiffany | Mermaid Kove LLC