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Christmas is such a magical time—a season filled with laughter, love, and celebration. But if you're a farm mom, it can also feel like the busiest, most overwhelming stretch of the year. There’s no closing the barn doors for the holidays, no skipping chores because of a Christmas party. Animals still need to be fed, watered, and cared for, regardless of how many places you need to be or gifts you need to wrap.
It’s okay to admit that juggling farm life and holiday festivities can be tough. But you don’t have to do it all—Christmas doesn’t have to leave you frazzled and exhausted. Here are a few ways to simplify the season and keep your peace as a farm mom.
1. Simplify Wherever You Can
The farm work won’t stop for Christmas, but you can make it easier on yourself (and anyone helping with chores). This is a great time to look at what can be simplified or streamlined for the week.
- Automate Watering Systems: If you haven’t already, consider setting up automatic waterers for your animals. This can save you time and ensure that everyone is hydrated, even when you’re away from the farm. Drinking Posts are a fantastic way to keep water fresh and unfrozen for small groups. Can you use water heaters in to keep tanks open?
- Bulk Feeding Solutions: Can you feed in bulk? Setting out large hay bales in feeders or stocking a self-feeder safely can take the pressure off during busy days when time feels short.
- Delegate Chores: Don’t hesitate to lean on family members or trusted neighbors to help with chores if you’re heading out for gatherings. Setting them up for success with clear instructions and easy-to-manage systems will make their job—and your peace of mind—so much better. Bonus you can use these systems to make your life easier too.
Even small changes to your routine can make a big difference when your days are full to the brim.
2. Say “No” Without Guilt
Christmas often comes with a packed schedule—parties, family gatherings, community events. While it’s wonderful to connect with loved ones, trying to do it all is a surefire way to sap your energy and leave you feeling stretched too thin.
It’s okay to say “no.” Really—it is.
Instead of rushing from one event to another, pick one gathering per day (or less, if needed). Doing less allows you to actually enjoy the time you spend with friends and family, rather than feeling hurried to get to the next commitment.
For my family, we made this decision years ago. My husband and I both have family close by and could theoretically see both sides of the family on the same day. But we realized early on that it would leave us drained and took away from the joy of being present. Instead, we split it up—one side on Christmas Eve, the other on Christmas Day. The result? We show up calm, present, and truly able to soak in the moments with our loved ones.
Remember—rested and happy beats rushed and overwhelmed every single time.
3. Focus on What Matters Most
Farm moms juggle a lot during the holidays, and it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture in the busyness of it all. The gift shopping, event planning, and even the barn work can easily overshadow the heart of Christmas.
Take a breath. Think about what truly matters this season.
For me, it’s my faith, my family, and creating a space filled with love at home. I remind myself that my kids won’t remember if the cookies were perfectly decorated or if the stockings had expensive trinkets. What they’ll remember is the warmth, laughter, and time we spent together—sipping cocoa, looking at Christmas lights, and simply being present. The things I remember 20 plus years later.
Stop trying to make Christmas “perfect.” It already is.
4. Build a Routine That Works for You
Christmas traditions are beautiful, but they also don’t need to create chaos in your life. Accept that you can shape this season to suit your family’s needs, instead of feeling bound by old expectations that no longer work.
- Set Time Blocks: Reserve specific times for chores versus family activities, so you’re not trying to juggle both at the same time.
- Shop Mindfully: Instead of stressing over long shopping lists, focus on meaningful but simple gifts. A handwritten note or a thoughtful farm-to-table item can be so much more impactful than something costly.
- Prep Ahead: Whether it’s preparing meals that can easily be reheated or wrapping your gifts a little at a time, spreading out the workload ahead of the busiest days can relieve a lot of last-minute stress.
5. Keep Community Close
It’s so easy to feel isolated on the farm during the holidays, especially with all the outdoor work that needs attention. But you’re not alone—there are countless other farm moms walking this same tightrope during Christmas.
Lean into the sense of community that’s around you. Maybe that’s connecting with other farm moms online, sharing tips, or organizing a small local holiday coffee meet-up. Sometimes, just hearing “Me too” can help you feel so much lighter.
Farm Moms Can Thrive This Christmas
Christmas may be a challenge on the farm, but it’s also an opportunity to lean into what truly matters. Simplify where you can, say no when you need to, and show yourself the same grace you extend to others.
You’re doing amazing work—not just on the farm, but as the heartbeat of your home.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed this season, I’d love to hear from you. What’s challenging you the most? What’s bringing you joy? Drop a comment or send me a message—I’m here to encourage you every step of the way.
Here’s to a calm and joyful Christmas, filled with the things that truly matter.
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