Dear Saint Nick,
We, the weary parents, had quite a year. We accidentally peeled the banana wrong, or half-peeled it, or touched it - none of it was right. We tore off yogurt lids in one fell swoop instead of delicately lifting a corner. We cut bread into squares instead of triangles, and mixed pasta with actual tomato sauce rather than ketchup. We chose the wrong clothes for the child, who was yearning for independence. We took off our shoes before our speedy girl, causing unnecessary haste. A plethora of mishaps plagued us. May the coming year grant us better luck - and, should you be so inclined, 40 more blessings:
- A babysitting voucher from all relatives and friends
- Quality time with your partner, away from diaper duties
- Ability to put the child to bed within five minutes, instead of 75
- Easily weaning children, like the Insta-Moms magically do
- A Wolt or Lieferando voucher, for dinner without dishes
- Happiness of grandparents towards their own children, echoed for their grandchildren
- Watching a movie in the cinema, not via couch-bound streaming
- Uninterrupted meals
- Meals for just one, no sharing required
- A prolonged vacation, all alone
- An apartment with self-cleaning rooms or a helpful cleaning assistant
- Magic laundry that washes, folds, and neatly arranges clothing
- A trustworthy and helpful chef, to simplify daily life
- A surprise meal for new parents, to ease their transition into parenthood
- A moratorium on parenting guides, fake mugs, and key chains with praising phrases
- A communal savings account for future, larger purchases, like scooters and bicycles
- Invitations to gatherings where children are welcome
- Lego, but only for parents
- Rustling patience, when preferably it would snap
- Affordable, charming apartments with spacious children's rooms
- Daycare spots for all, well-funded and well-staffed
- Influence and pay for more dedicated educators
- An additional family day during the week, with no obligations
- Additional day off, devoid of children's demands
- A full day of couch lounging, free from disturbances
- Permission to sleep until midday, absent of pesky wake-up calls
- A reacquaintance with peaceful, uninterrupted sleep
- A winter without children's illnesses to disrupt routines
- The freedom to organize leisure time without consideration for the offspring
- Perfection in all banana-peeling, sweater-choosing, on-time arrival endeavors
- Selecting the ideal Christmas present, without excess noise or flashing lights
- Sparing minutes in waiting rooms and emergency rooms
- Dedicated supermarket checkouts with child-friendly features
- Relaxation in the bathtub, without children barging in
- Private trips to the restroom, without children demanding attention
- A day without incessant "Why?"s
- Alcohol consumption, absent of child-related responsibilities the next day
- Memorable photos captured of a mother with her child, instead of just the child
- Active offloading of mental responsibilities from partners during the holiday season
Additional Insights:
- Oprah Daily and Country Living articles provide various gift ideas for mothers, including cozy loungewear sets, stylish pajamas, and spa-like foot massagers.
- The gift ideas range from comfortable and practical to luxurious and personalized, catering to the diverse interests and needs of mothers.
- The gifts listed focus on self-care and relaxation, as well as providing new hobbies and experiences.
- Some ideas include a diamond bangle, bendable hair ties, and a diamond painting kit for a hobbyistic twist.
- Multitude of gifts emphasize comfort, such as soft robes and bamboo pullovers.
- A Masterclass session on home design is included as well, catering to those who prefer DIY and learning experiences.
- Many ideas are practical, like slippers, aromatherapy candles, and kitchen towels.
- Surprise meals for new parents and a holiday savings account are also suggested, providing assistance for major purchases.
