Hi,
Am I the only parent who finds this time of year incredibly stressful? I feel like a terrible parent, as though I should be making the most of these precious magical moments with my children. Basking in the festive spirit, family time and no work.
But I just feel horrendous. Every year. The incredibly busy build up to the 'big day'. Shopping for two family's as well as friends, organising children's social calendars (how many pantomimes / non uniform days / Christmas jumper days / discos/ parties/ visits from Santa can they possibly have?)
I work two jobs. About 50-60 hrs a week. As soon as this stops for a few days, I run straight into cleaning / cooking / tidying / visits from and to people. Family and friends getting upset if we can't see them. I have a husband who tries, but inevitably never ends up doing anything in the run up to - or over this period. I find myself feeling alone, like a work horse, run into the ground, and just wanting to hide away until it's all over. Am I just a grinch?