As the holiday season rolls around, we’re once again inundated with cheerful cards and those infamous holiday newsletters. You know the ones—carefully curated updates that resemble polished selfies, presenting an idealized version of life that often leaves us wondering how they manage it all. I’ve participated in this tradition myself, sifting through the year’s events to highlight our “amazing” moments, even if they’re often mundane.
But let’s skip the pretense and get real. Crafting a multi-page newsletter stuffed with exaggerated accomplishments is exhausting, and let’s face it—most people are likely chuckling or rolling their eyes while reading it. So, why not opt for a more genuine approach?
Here’s my candid update:
Dear Friends,
Another year has zipped by—doesn’t it feel like we’re racing toward the finish line? It certainly does for me. Between laundry, diaper changes, and binge-watching my favorite shows, I’ve carved out a moment to fill you in on our family happenings.
Honestly, this past year was a bit of a mixed bag. Sure, we have food on the table and a roof overhead, but let’s not sugarcoat it—things could have been better. The kids? Nothing earth-shattering to report. Caleb’s skin issues have worsened, which he definitely didn’t inherit from me. I mean, I get the occasional breakout, but nothing like that. After months of nagging, he finally landed a job, so that’s a small victory.
Ella is no longer in the gifted program; we decided to pull her out since it was clear she was struggling. She still enjoys playing baseball, though.
The twins are growing up way too fast! Ava is starting to smell like a teenager (yikes!), and Mia has been having some dramatic meltdowns. What fun times ahead with three daughters navigating puberty right as I’m heading into menopause!
Little Lucy is still adorable, but she’s starting to show her bratty side. Tommy, as always, has Down syndrome, and we’re contemplating hypnosis for him—after all, I read somewhere that it works wonders! And then there’s baby Sophie, who just keeps me on my toes. Seriously, babies demand a lot!
Health-wise, we’ve been relatively fortunate, except for that brief bout of tummy troubles (I’ll spare you the details) and an unfortunate lice incident a few months back that we think we’ve finally conquered.
Traveling this year was a no-go; finances and our growing family make it tough. Michael lost his job, but he’s exploring freelance work now—fingers crossed! As for me, I’m trying to save up for some much-needed bladder repair surgery; let’s just say that I’m not as spry as I used to be. A breast lift has also been on my wish list, but I have to choose wisely since we can’t afford both, unless I dip into the nonexistent college funds for the kids.
Our home is in disarray, but fixing it up seems impossible with all the chaos. I wouldn’t call it a disaster zone, but it’s close. You can probably guess who’s relying on antidepressants and who’s leaning on a glass of wine to cope—my lips are sealed!
Anyway, wishing you all a joyous holiday season! Until next year!
Best,
Lisa
P.S. For those considering family planning or looking into home insemination, check out this cryobaby home intracervical insemination syringe kit combo or explore this at-home insemination kit for reliable options. Also, for further information on infertility treatments, visit ACOG’s resource page—it’s quite helpful.
Summary:
This holiday newsletter embraces authenticity, sharing the ups and downs of family life without the usual embellishments. From navigating teenage challenges to the unpredictability of toddlers, the message is clear: life is messy, but that’s part of the journey.
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