By: Jessica H. Collins
Updated: Dec. 22, 2019
Originally Published: Dec. 24, 2015
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Denial
In this initial stage, parents often find themselves in a state of disbelief. The numerous boxes that have arrived, filled to the brim, are somehow all just plush toys, right? It’s already past 11 p.m., but surely this won’t take long. After all, most items might be pre-assembled, and you recall breezing through shop class years ago. Surely, nothing requires batteries — you’ve prepared for that! The drill is charged, and the tiny screwdriver is in sight. You convince yourself this year won’t demand tools you haven’t used since the last holiday crisis. -
Blame
As the clock ticks, the blame game begins. You hear sarcastic remarks from your partner, who has taken no part in the shopping spree and was nudged to help weeks prior. Meanwhile, the other parent, who has been hunting for deals since Halloween, chimes in about how it’s your fault for overindulging the kids. Accusations fly — it’s your mother’s fault for sending all these gifts! You both spiral into a playful but tense exchange, contemplating the absurdity of assembling toys at such an hour. -
Reminiscing
In quiet moments between assembling, nostalgia creeps in. You remember the tranquil Christmas Eves before children: cozy fires, meals without chicken nuggets, and peaceful mornings. You recall the joy of your first Christmas as a married couple, excited about a future with children. The memories bring a bittersweet smile as you think about how those simple pleasures have transformed into chaotic nights filled with assembly tasks. The thought of waking at dawn to admire the new hot water heater you “gifted” each other brings a chuckle. -
“We’re Done Having Kids”
As the hours pass and exhaustion sets in, you find yourselves deep in conversation about family planning. Bleary-eyed and frustrated, you both make declarations in jest. The baby wakes, a toddler cries, and the construction of a toy workbench feels overwhelming. You both lament the chaos of having multiple children sharing your bed, and it becomes a running joke about how you’ll never share a moment again — or will you? The playful banter lightens the mood, but the realization remains: there’s no turning back now. -
Acceptance
Finally, you both reach a state of acceptance. The earlier arguments fade into laughter as you work together, channeling whatever energy remains into completing the task. You step outside for a moment to enjoy the crisp night air and test the new scooter or toss around the football. You label gifts “From Santa,” set up the train track, and stuff the stockings. As exhaustion takes over, you find gratitude in the joy your children will bring when morning dawns. You embrace your roles as parents, celebrating another Christmas Eve together.
Merry Christmas!
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In summary, navigating the chaotic experience of Christmas Eve toy assembly is a journey filled with stages of denial, blame, nostalgia, playful frustrations, and ultimately acceptance. Embracing each phase can help parents enjoy the magic of the holiday season, despite the late-night work.
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