8 Gifts I’m Bestowing Upon Myself This Holiday Season

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As the holiday season approaches, it’s that time again when my kids start inquiring about my gift preferences. To be frank, this feels like a bit of a trap. While some mothers might lovingly respond, “I don’t need anything,” I find myself wondering where they find such tranquility amidst the chaos. I’m just not that mom—my wish list is lengthy, punctuated by a luxurious cashmere shawl I spotted in a catalog, which my children could never afford, even if they pooled all their allowance for two years. Instead, they seem convinced I’d rather receive another coupon booklet for chores or yet another charming mug proclaiming me the “Best Mom Ever.”

Don’t misunderstand me; I cherish the handmade gifts like miniature handprints on paper and the macaroni necklace from ages ago. However, there are specific items on my wish list that my family simply cannot provide. If I desire them, I’ll have to take matters into my own hands. Here are the eight gifts I’m treating myself to this festive season:

  1. Unlimited Peppermint Mochas
    While many eagerly await pumpkin spice lattes, my heart belongs to peppermint mochas—complete with whipped cream, of course! This season, I’m indulging in as many as I want. After all, it’s essential to stay caffeinated while navigating the holiday shopping frenzy.
  2. Warm Coffee
    It’s a small dream of mine to finish my morning coffee while it’s still warm. My children always seem to require urgent attention, like breakfast. This year, I’m determined to enjoy that first cup without interruptions.
  3. Chair Massage
    I often encounter those massage chairs in stores, and while my ideal spa day involves a luxurious treatment, I’ll happily settle for a quick chair massage. It may only last ten minutes, but those moments of relaxation are pure bliss.
  4. New Underwear
    It’s always necessary to refresh my underwear drawer, yet no one seems willing to shop for it. It appears my children lack the initiative to find the fun prints I adore, while my partner opts for the impractical. I’ll be making a solo trip for some fresh intimates.
  5. New Fragrance
    Let’s be clear: never let children select your perfume. The results can be tragically comical. Selecting my own scent is essential, so I’ll be heading to the fragrance counter—far away from their questionable taste.
  6. Control of the Car Radio
    December is officially “Mom’s Music Month.” I’ll be choosing the playlists during car rides, whether it’s Christmas tunes or my cherished ’80s rock. If the kids object, too bad! We’ll be jamming to my Spotify.
  7. Binge-Watching on Netflix
    I’ve been meaning to catch up on shows like The Crown and Gilmore Girls. This month, I plan to retreat to my room with earbuds in and enjoy uninterrupted viewing time, all while pretending to wrap gifts.
  8. Takeout
    Less cooking means more time for Netflix. So yes, we’re having pizza again, kids! It’s practically a holiday gift in itself.

By the time I complete my self-gifting, my wish list will be fulfilled. I wonder what my kids will forge for me this year—perhaps another mug adorned with their artistic flair. To learn more about navigating the journey of parenthood, check out this helpful article on couples’ fertility journey for intracervical insemination. For additional insights into pregnancy, visit this excellent resource on treating infertility.