Can't bring myself to take kids to lights tonight

[LaahDeeDah]

I feel burnt out with all the Xmas prep , work and sons bday was recently. Husband has his work do tonight and I'm supposed to be taking 7 and high energy 3 year old to see some Xmas lights in a national park.

I don't know if I can muster up the energy.
I need to go though. They are expecting to go.
I feel run down.
I just want to get snugly on the sofa...which even if I do stay, is no way going to be as comfy as I imagine as the kids will be going crazy around me.

Please help me find the motivation to go.

Is there anyone you know going or would want to go that can make it a bit more bearable for you?

Go. It will be nicer than you think. Then come home and get snuggly.

Unfortunately not @TomatoSandwiches

@mambojambodothetango thank you.

Any tips to make it easier? I don't know how to explain to 3 year not to run off. Obvs I don't need him to be glued to me, we don't need to hold hands. But he gets so excited and runs towards things he likes. He's very fast.

What’s the weather forecast in your area? Is it an option to walk or drive around the area and see some of the local decorations. Put Christmas music on and have some treats in the car/make S‘Mores when you get home.

@LaahDeeDah that's a shame.
Could you plan to take a picture of them infront of the best lights ( they get to choose ) and then make them into thank you notes/cards for family?

If they are anything like mine were at that age they will just turn more feral as the night goes on and make me feel even more guilty, take them early and eat out afterwards so you have less to do at home, quick wash, teeth and bed when you get home and an earlish night for you.

Get reigns on your 3 year-old- it will be really busy and he needs to be kept safe. Above all you know you have to go so stop stressing about it as that's just wasted energy.

Reins. Or a backpack with rope / string attached, if you don't have reins.

I felt like this last Saturday and was so glad I went. Kids loved it and I quite enjoyed it too.

You will feel better for going once you’ve been!

We have tickets for something similar sounding tonight and it’s pouring. Wellies etc are looked out and I’m looking forward to takeaway snuggled up on sofa afterwards!

Deep breath OP, it'll be nicer than you think

You'll feel better after you've been!
Wellies, wrapped up, reins if needed for 3 year old.

We have tickets for same thing tomorrow night.
The chocolate pancakes and churros are what's keeping me going 😅

Reins or even buggy for 3 year old.

I'd say your 3yo does need to be attached to you - if he won't hold hands then reins or buggy. These things get really crowded and it would only take a second for him to be out of your sight.

This. Once you’ve got there I’m sure you’ll enjoy yourself.

I had dinner plans the other night and really did not want to go for similar reasons as you really but actually once I got there I really enjoyed myself despite feeling so drained earlier on in the day.

Can you have a really chill day tomorrow? Get DH to take the DC to the park and a cafe for a couple of hours, you stay on the sofa and doze through an old Christmas film.