Peace, Presence, and Hope: A Single Mom’s Guide to Enjoying the Holidays Without the Stress

by Kopper Thatch

A The Kids & Me Guest Writer

The holidays can be equal parts magic and mayhem, the endless to-do lists, gift wrapping, meal planning, and keeping your little one filled with joy (and not sugar highs). But this year, I want to remind you: it doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful.

When we slow down and keep Christ at the center, we start to see the beauty in the small moments — the giggles, the quiet, the grace.

Keeping Christ at the Center

Before you scroll, shop, or stress — take a breath and whisper a simple prayer:

“Lord, help me rest in You today.”

He doesn’t ask us to do the holidays flawlessly. He asks us to be present. Even if your tree isn’t symmetrical, the lights don’t match, or your heart feels a little tender this year — God is still weaving goodness into your days.

This season, lean into that truth. The beauty of Christmas is that Emmanuel, God with us, meets us right where we are.

Craft Time: “Gratitude Garland”

A beautiful, low-stress craft that helps kids focus on gratitude and joy.

You’ll need:

•Ribbon, string, or twine

•Construction paper (reds, greens, golds)

•Scissors and hole punch

•Markers or crayons

Cut the paper into ornaments or tag shapes. Each day (or once a week), you and your child write or draw something you’re thankful for — from hot cocoa nights to hugs or answered prayers. String them together and hang the garland on a doorway or tree.

By Christmas, you’ll have a strand of blessings — a visual reminder that even in hard seasons, there’s still so much good.

Festive Food: Holiday Snack Board

Forget complicated dinners, create a Holiday Charcuterie Board that’s fun, affordable, and kid-approved.

What to include:

•Fruits: red and green grapes, apple slices, strawberries, pomegranate seeds

•Cheeses: cubes of cheddar, mozzarella, and brie wedges

•Proteins: turkey or ham roll-ups, mini sausage bites

•Crunch: pretzels, popcorn, or whole-grain crackers

•Sweet touch: peppermint bark, chocolate-dipped pretzels, or holiday cookies

Arrange the items by color (reds, greens, whites, golds) and add a sprig of rosemary for that cozy Christmas scent. Pair with hot cocoa or sparkling juice for the perfect movie night setup!

Stepping into the New Year with Hope

As you reflect on the year, you might see it’s been full of change, growth, or learning to lean more on God. Remember: you don’t have to do it all alone.

This season, open your heart to hope. Ask for help from those you trust. Lean into your tribe, or start building one with new connections that feel safe, uplifting, and real.

And most of all, remember this: You are loved, you are seen, and you are doing beautifully even when it feels messy. God’s grace is the anchor that steadies us through every season.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” — Romans 15:13

From My Heart to Yours

This Christmas, may your home be filled with laughter, your heart with peace, and your spirit with hope. Whether you’re surrounded by family or finding new rhythms as a single mom, just remember, you are never walking alone.

God’s love is your constant, steady light — today, tomorrow, and in the new year ahead.