I have a love-hate relationship with the holidays, as I had to navigate through a lot of emotions to accept the societal expectation of celebrating them. If you choose not to celebrate, you may be seen as weird or different. My main issue stems from my less-than-ideal childhood, where receiving gifts to compensate for a year of unpleasant experiences seemed illogical. I want my children to only have positive holiday memories, regardless of their choice to celebrate or not. Overcoming the negative associations I had with holidays was one of the most challenging things I've ever had to do. These were my personal experiences and struggles, not those of my children.

Should you observe a family member or friend becoming quiet or distant during this season, make sure to reach out to them. The intense emotions that may surface during the holidays might necessitate a compassionate listener, which can significantly influence our mood as we strive to embrace the festive spirit despite not feeling particularly joyful.

On a brighter note, my twins are enthusiastic about seasonal decorations, scents, and more, prompting me to explore what options are available for us to try. The stores I shop at are Bath and Body Works and the reliable Walmart.

While searching for holiday bodywash scents, I came across Dove Peppermint Bark Body Wash and Dove Sugar Cookie Body Wash. The idea of smelling like a sugar cookie or peppermint while out and about didn't seem too appealing. However, sometimes you have to take one for the kids, Lol.

Just when I was about to give up, I discovered Dove Spiced Chai Body Wash. I'm excited about the thought of it having a sweet and spicy scent, just like me. Therefore, I'll go for the Dove Chai Spiced Body Wash for myself and the Dove Sugar Cookie Body Wash for the kids.

Now onto searching through Bath and Body's Works crazy amount of scents. Here's a link to their Bath and Body Works Holiday Shop as you gotta have some clue as to a scent you are after on that site. My favorites have been Japanese Cherry Blossom and their Halloween Scents which of course are seasonal.

Do you have any items on your Christmas wishlist that you'd like me to try and find a good deal on? Feel free to comment below or send me a private message.

It's important to reach out to your friends and family as not everyone may be feeling cheerful during this time of year! Your supportive words could help them feel less isolated.