How Are We Feeling This Holiday Season? A Check-In with Love, Care, and Support

The holidays are here, and while there’s so much joy in the air, we know this season can bring up all kinds of feelings. For some of us, it’s the most magical time of year, lights twinkling, gifts being wrapped, and holiday playlists on repeat. For others, it’s a time that feels heavier, filled with moments of reflection, challenges, or even sadness. Wherever you are in your journey, Milk and Melts is here to check in with you, hold space for your feelings, and remind you that this season is yours to navigate with care and grace.

Missing Loved Ones

One of the most tender parts of the holidays is the way they can magnify the absence of loved ones. Whether it’s a family member or friend who has passed on, someone living far away, or even a relationship that has changed with time, the holiday season often brings those feelings of longing to the surface.

And Girlfriend, let’s be real, it’s okay to miss them. That ache is a reflection of the love and connection you shared, and there’s beauty in that. Grief and nostalgia are simply love in another form, and honoring those feelings is part of honoring the bond you still have.

You don’t have to push those emotions aside. Instead, try creating moments that keep their memory alive in meaningful and personal ways. If you’re missing someone who’s no longer here, lean into traditions that remind you of them. Maybe it’s cooking their favorite recipe, playing their favorite holiday song, or hanging up an ornament that holds a special memory. These acts don’t erase the sadness, but they weave their presence into your season in a way that feels comforting.

If distance is the issue, find ways to bridge the gap. A heartfelt video call, a surprise holiday card, or even a simple text message to say, “I’m thinking of you,” can close the miles in an instant. The love you share doesn’t have to be paused just because they’re far away.

Writing can also be a deeply healing way to navigate the emotions that come with missing someone. Grab your journal and write them a letter. Share how you’re feeling, what you miss most, and the moments that have stayed with you. Or simply jot down your favorite memories, those little details that still make you smile. Putting it into words can lighten the emotional load and remind you of the joy they brought to your life.

Creating a tribute can be another beautiful way to honor their presence. Light a candle in their memory, hang an ornament in their honor, or set a special spot at the table as a silent nod to the place they hold in your heart. These gestures, though simple, can feel incredibly grounding and affirming.

And don’t be afraid to talk about them. Share stories with friends or family, laugh about the good times, and cry if you need to. Let those memories breathe because they deserve space in your life. The people who shaped you, who loved you, and who left their mark are part of your story, and keeping them close in conversation can be a source of comfort and connection.

Girlfriend, remember this: The love you feel for them isn’t confined by time or space, it lives on in your heart, your memories, and the ways you honor their life. Even in their absence, their spirit is present, woven into the fabric of who you are. This holiday season, allow yourself to feel everything, to hold space for their memory, and to embrace the joy of keeping their love alive in your own unique way.

Healing Checklist---> Keeping Loved Ones Close This Holiday Season

• Write it out Pen a letter to them or journal your favorite memories to process your feelings.
• Create a tribute Light a candle, hang a special ornament, or dedicate a space in their honor.
• Share stories Reflect on their life with friends or family—laugh, cry, and celebrate their memory.
• Embrace traditions Cook their favorite dish, play their favorite holiday song, or engage in activities that remind you of them.
• Reach out to faraway loved ones Use video calls, texts, or holiday cards to connect across the miles.

You don’t have to face those feelings alone, and you don’t have to ignore them either. Holding space for absence is a powerful way to celebrate the enduring presence of love.

Money Woes and Gift-Giving Stress

This time of year can feel like a financial tightrope walk. Between gifts, holiday gatherings, travel, and those surprise expenses (looking at you, Secret Santa at work!), on top of our monthly expenses that ain't going anywhere, the pressure to spend can leave anyone feeling stressed. But here’s the truth, The best gifts in life aren’t the ones that come with big price tags, they’re the ones that come straight from the heart.

First, let’s unpack this pressure to splurge. The holiday season often tricks us into thinking that our love and appreciation for others are measured by how much we spend. But the reality is, it’s not about the cost, it’s about the connection. Thoughtful gestures and meaningful moments will always outshine expensive wrapping paper.

Instead of focusing on spending, focus on giving in creative ways that truly matter. Write heartfelt notes to your loved ones. Tell them what you love and appreciate about them, how they’ve impacted your life, and the memories you hold dear. A handwritten letter can be more cherished than any store-bought gift because it’s personal and unique.

If you’re someone who loves to bake or craft, use those skills to create something special. Bake a batch of cookies, make a homemade personalized body scrub, or knit a cozy scarf. These gifts aren’t just thoughtful, they show that you’ve invested your time and energy into something meaningful. And forreal, who doesn’t love a gift that’s been made with love?

And don’t underestimate the power of gifting your time. A coffee date, a walk in the park, or even a day helping someone with errands can mean more than any material gift. Sometimes, your presence is the most valuable thing you can offer—especially to someone who might be feeling lonely or overwhelmed during the holidays.

When it comes to family gatherings or group settings, consider suggesting a Secret Santa or a white elephant exchange instead of buying individual gifts for everyone. These fun, budget-friendly alternatives take the pressure off while still letting everyone feel the joy of giving and receiving.

For kids, focus on experiences rather than things. A trip to the zoo, a holiday movie marathon at home, or a day baking cookies together can create memories that last much longer than the excitement of a new toy.

And let’s talk about setting boundaries. If gift-giving is feeling too overwhelming, it’s okay to be upfront about it. A simple, “This year, I’d like to focus on spending time together instead of exchanging gifts,” is perfectly acceptable. The people who love you will understand.

Remember, friend, the holidays are about connection, not consumerism. It’s about showing up with love and thoughtfulness, not showing off with extravagant gifts. By focusing on the moments and gestures that matter, you can create a season that feels meaningful, joyful, and stress-free, for both you and the people you care about.

Budget-Friendly Giving Checklist----> Thoughtful and Creative Ways to Show Love

• Write heartfelt notes Share your gratitude and love in a handwritten letter or card.
• Get crafty Bake cookies, make candles, or create DIY gifts with a personal touch.
• Give your time Plan a coffee date, offer to help with errands, or just spend quality time together.
• Suggest a gift exchange Keep costs down with Secret Santa or white elephant games.
• Focus on experiences Plan memory-making activities like baking, movie nights, or outings.
• Set boundaries Be honest if you’re simplifying your gift-giving this year—it’s okay to prioritize your well-being.
• Budget Friendly Stores There are many nice retail stores that offer very nice gifts and very budget-friendly prices like

1. Dollar Tree, don't sleep on the Dollar Tree, there's all types of treasure to find for gifts.
2. Family Dollar, much like Dollar Tree if not the same.
3. Amazon, of course has some great reasonable finds
4. Tiktok Shop has been really find, offers discounts and coupons and option to pay with Klarna

By shifting your focus from “how much” to “how meaningful,” you can turn the stress of the season into an opportunity to connect on a deeper level. And isn’t that what the holidays are truly about?

Emotions Running Low

not everyone feels the holiday spirit bubbling over this time of year, and that’s perfectly okay. Life doesn’t always line up with the glittery, picture-perfect cheer we see in holiday ads, movies, or scrolling through social media. Sometimes, the season catches us in a moment where joy feels a little out of reach. Whether it’s stress, grief, exhaustion, or just plain burnout, it’s important to know that it’s okay not to feel like singing carols or decking the halls.

First and foremost, give yourself permission to feel what you’re feeling. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of “faking it ‘til you make it,” but forcing happiness when you’re not in the mood can make you feel even more disconnected. Acknowledge your emotions, whatever they may be, sadness, frustration, loneliness, or just plain “meh.” Feeling those emotions doesn’t mean you’re failing at the holidays; it means you’re human.

Instead of forcing joy, focus on creating small moments of peace for yourself. These moments don’t have to be big or elaborate—they just need to nurture you in a way that feels good. Maybe that looks like staying cozy under a blanket with a good book, lighting your favorite candle, and sipping something warm. Or it might mean binge-watching your go-to series with zero guilt or taking a quiet stroll to clear your mind.

Self-care is crucial when your emotional tank feels low. Little acts of self-care—like taking a hot bath, doing a quick face mask, journaling your thoughts, or even just taking 10 minutes to breathe deeply, can help you feel more centered. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish. It’s about refilling your own cup so that you have the strength and space to navigate this season in your own way.

Consider unplugging from the constant holiday noise. Social media can be overwhelming, especially when it feels like everyone else is thriving in ways you’re not. Take a break if you need to, and remind yourself that social media is often a highlight reel, not the whole story. Focus instead on your own experience, no matter how quiet or understated it might be this year.

And don’t be afraid to reach out for support. Sometimes, just talking about how you’re feeling with a friend, family member, or even a therapist can help lighten the load. You don’t have to go through this season alone.

Most importantly, remember that it’s okay for your holiday experience to look different from others. You don’t have to “do it all” or match someone else’s level of cheer. This season is what you make it, and it’s okay to prioritize rest, peace, and self-kindness above all else.

Self-Care Checklist----> How to Lift Your Spirits When the Holiday Energy is Low

• Create cozy moments Curl up with a book, your favorite blanket, and a warm drink.
• Unplug Take a break from social media and the pressure of comparison.
• Binge guilt-free Watch your favorite series or holiday movies for comfort and escape.
• Journal Our favorite thing to do. Write down your feelings and thoughts—it can be therapeutic and grounding.
• Move gently Take a quiet walk or stretch at home to ease tension and boost endorphins.
• Indulge in self-care Run a bath, do a face mask, or treat yourself to something small and special.
• Talk it out Share your feelings with someone who will listen without judgment.

This holiday season, let your feelings guide you. Whether you’re taking it day by day or moment by moment, prioritize the things that bring you comfort and calm. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s peace.

Work Woes and End-of-Year Pressure

The end of the year often brings a unique kind of chaos at work. Deadlines start piling up, last-minute projects appear out of nowhere, and the weight of expectations can leave you feeling like you’re running on empty. Add in the holiday season’s demands, and it’s no wonder work stress feels more intense this time of year. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know you’re not alone, Girlfriend. Many of us are juggling so much right now, and it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind or not doing enough.

But here’s the truth: You are doing the best you can, and that is more than enough. The work will always be there, but your peace and well-being are priceless. It’s so important to give yourself permission to set boundaries that protect your time, energy, and mental health. Remember, saying “no” to taking on extra work or staying late doesn’t mean you’re not dedicated, it means you value your own limits.

Start by carving out moments to step away. Even a five-minute pause to stretch, take a few deep breaths, or grab a glass of water can do wonders for resetting your mind. If you can, take a walk outside to clear your head and get some fresh air. These small breaks help to ground you, easing the tension and giving you the clarity to move forward.

It’s also important to prioritize your workload. Not everything is urgent, even if it feels that way. Focus on the tasks that truly matter and let go of the pressure to do everything perfectly. Use a planner or to-do list to organize your day so you can tackle one thing at a time without getting lost in the overwhelm.

And friend, don’t forget to advocate for yourself. If you’re feeling buried under the weight of deadlines, have a conversation with your manager about what’s realistic to accomplish. Sometimes we feel like we have to carry it all, but asking for support or clarity can make a huge difference. You don’t have to prove anything by overworking yourself to exhaustion.

Finally, remember to recharge after the workday. Make it a point to leave work at work, mentally and physically. Create a routine for transitioning out of “work mode,” whether it’s taking a hot shower, journaling about your day, or putting on your favorite music to wind down. These simple acts remind you that you are more than your job and that your life outside of work deserves just as much care and attention.

Your Work-Wellness Checklist----> Protect Your Peace at Work

• Take Micro-Breaks Step away for a few minutes to stretch, breathe, or enjoy a moment of quiet.
• Prioritize Tasks Use a to-do list or planner to focus on what truly matters today.
• Set Boundaries Say no to extra work that threatens your well-being or family time.
• Communicate Needs Advocate for clarity or support if the workload feels overwhelming.
• End-of-Day Routines Transition out of work mode with a calming routine to recharge.
• Celebrate Wins Acknowledge your achievements, big or small, and give yourself credit.

As the year winds down, give yourself grace. You don’t have to do it all, and you certainly don’t have to do it perfectly. Protect your peace and remember that your well-being matters more than any deadline or project. Work will always be there, but you are your greatest asset, treat yourself with the care and respect you deserve.

Rekindling the Spark of the Season

If the holiday magic feels dim, try creating small moments of joy for yourself. Pour a cup of hot cocoa, drive around to see Christmas lights, or dance to your favorite holiday playlist. These small actions can slowly shift the energy and remind you that joy is still within reach.

And let’s not forget: self-care isn’t selfish, especially during the holidays. Be intentional about carving out time for yourself, whether that means journaling, a quick spa night at home, or even saying no to plans that feel more draining than uplifting.

You’re Not Alone

The most important message we want to leave you with is this: You’re not alone. Whatever you’re feeling, joy, grief, stress, or a mix of it all, it is all valid. Milk and Melts is here to remind you that you’re seen, supported, and loved.

If you’re thriving this holiday season, we celebrate that with you. If you’re struggling, know we’re here to cheer you on. Let this be the season where you show yourself grace, honor your emotions, and remember that you’re more than enough, just as you are.

Wrapping It All Up

As we move through this season, let’s hold space for ourselves and each other. Check in with your heart, reach out to those who uplift you, and know that every day is an opportunity to choose peace, love, and care.

We’d love to hear how you’re navigating this season, share your thoughts in the comments. Let’s keep this conversation going, supporting and uplifting one another.

 

With love and light,
Milk and Melts