Just when you finally checked the last item off your kid’s school supply list—BAM!—they're already decking the halls at Target, and you’re dodging inflatable snowmen just to grab some laundry detergent. Oh, and those school holiday party sign-ups? Already on the calendar. So while the world might be jingling bells, you’re over here just trying to keep everyone fed, clothed, and semi-sane.

It’s okay, Mama, take a deep breath. You haven’t missed Thanksgiving. It’s still September. Pumpkin spice is just starting to sneak onto shelves, and you might still be finding glitter from the Fourth of July.

Don’t Let the Holidays Make You Hide in the Pantry

Let’s be honest, you’re probably not leisurely sipping cider in a chunky sweater while journaling about gratitude. Most single moms are reheating chicken nuggets, helping with math homework, and wondering if that half-lit string of lights is still in a bin labeled “Christmas Maybe?”

If just hearing the word “holiday” makes you want to pull the covers over your head and text “new number, who dis?” to your family group chat—you’re not alone. Mama, your peace deserves a place at the table too (even if the table still has ketchup on it from last night).

Redefine This Season with Peace and Joy

We’re not asking you to plan your tablescape; we’re just asking you to breathe, pause, and take back your peace before the madness begins. This season isn’t about tinsel and timelines. It’s about making room in your heart before chaos fills your schedule.

So, let’s pause and talk about something that matters this time of year:
Your peace. Your joy. And your heart.

Whether your holidays look like a classic Hallmark movie or you're riding on the hot mess express (hey, no judgment here!), you can enter the season with confidence, purpose, and a whole lot of grace.

Let’s talk about how.

Start with a Deep Breath (Not a To-Do List)

It’s so easy to go into holiday autopilot—shopping, planning, decorating, overcommitting, trying to make it all “magical”—but what if we made a different kind of list this year? One that prioritizes peace over pressure and presence over perfection.

Now’s the time to ask: What do I want the heart of our holidays to feel like?

Think less about what you “should” do and more about what actually brings joy to you and your kids.

Spoiler alert: it doesn’t have to be expensive, Insta-worthy, or even traditional. Just real. Just yours.

Plan for the Hard Feelings, Too

Holidays can stir up some big emotions. Maybe it’s grief over what used to be, dread over the awkward family gatherings, or loneliness when the day is quieter than you hoped. It could also be the stress of managing finances, the pressure of meeting societal expectations, or the fear of not being able to provide a 'perfect' holiday experience for your kids.

Those feelings? All totally valid.

Now is the perfect time to get honest with yourself and God about all your feelings—before you’re in the middle of it all.

Start asking now:

Where do I need extra support this season?
How can I care for my heart in the weeks ahead?
What boundaries will protect my peace and my kids’ emotional space?

You don’t have to change anything overnight, but answering these questions now gives you time to prepare your heart and your schedule with intention.

Teach Joy Through Giving

Generosity is one of the most beautiful things about the holiday season, but it doesn’t have to start on Black Friday. Begin planting the seed now with small, intentional conversations or family moments.

Can you brainstorm a giving project to do together?
Could you collect a few pantry items for a food drive?
How about picking a dollar-store toy each week to donate later?

Start early, keep it light, and let your kids see that the absolute joy of the holidays isn’t just in what we get—it’s in what we give away.

You’re Allowed to Do It Differently

The beauty of being a single mom is that you get to write the story. If the old traditions don’t work anymore, you can create new ones. If the family dynamics have shifted, you can decide how your home celebrates.

Take some time now to dream with God about what this holiday season could be. Not just what you’re afraid of, but what you’re hoping for.

A home filled with peace.
Kids who feel safe and loved.
Quiet moments of joy.
Laughter around the table.

The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be beautiful, and you don’t have to wait until November to make plans. You’ve got this, Mama!

Want to walk into the holidays with peace instead of panic?

You’re not alone—and you don’t have to do this season solo. At Shepherd’s Village, we’re more than a ministry—we’re a village of support where single moms gather to breathe, laugh, cry, pray, and walk it out together.

If you need someone to remind you that you're doing better than you think, you’ve always got a seat at our table (yes, even if it's sticky from toddler snacks). Join us in a class, send in a prayer request, or call our 24-hour prayer hotline at 855-822-PRAY. We believe your best season yet might just be the one you prepare your heart for right now.

PRAY FOR ME

How To Fill Your Heart (Not Your Calendar) Before the Holidays