By: Clara Jensen
Dec. 23, 2023
Hello everyone! I’m thrilled to introduce a delightful new holiday, and I hope you’ll join me in celebrating. Allow me to share a little poem titled “The Ultimate Day of Rest” that captures the essence of this occasion:
You’ve cooked, you’ve cleaned, you’ve planned, and you’ve dreamed
To make the holiday festive and bright.
Now? You’re exhausted, with tasks that have costed
Your joy in the midst of delight.
You deserve a break, a drink (and a cake);
Some mindless TV wouldn’t hurt.
Let the family feast on leftovers while you savor treats from the dessert.
“New toys were opened yesterday!” “No cooking today!”
The car keys stay put in your bag.
No shower or clothes, just your comfy PJs—
Let your hair take a break and sag.
It’s December 26, the day you can fix
Yourself as the Queen of the Couch.
The remote’s in your hand, with your glass full of wine—
You’ve earned this day off, without a doubt.
Ladies: Moms’ Day Off is December 26!
Are you ready?
I’ve been trying to observe Moms’ Day Off on December 26 for nearly a decade now. While I don’t always succeed—sometimes life gets in the way—I make every effort.
This personal holiday originated when I realized that from December 22 to December 25, I barely sat down. By the time the 26th rolled around, I was completely drained. The first time I celebrated, my kids were just 1 and 6 years old, and I managed to watch Julie & Julia in a glorious four and a half hours. That day remains one of my all-time favorites. Now, whenever the movie is on, I instinctively reach for the red wine.
Admittedly, my children have come to dread this day. I can’t help but remind them, “Oops! Sorry! You can’t watch TV! It’s Moms’ Day Off!”—and I chuckle at the thought.
Guidelines for Moms’ Day Off
If you’d like to join in the fun, here are the guidelines:
- Mom reigns supreme over the remote from dawn until bedtime (and it’s totally acceptable to snooze on the couch).
- The car must stay parked.
- Wine can be enjoyed starting at 11:30 a.m. (or even 11!).
- No cooking allowed! Only leftovers or easily accessible self-serve options.
- PJs are mandatory. One year, I even wore them to a family gathering I couldn’t miss!
- Naps are encouraged. Nappity nap nap nap.
- Anyone who isn’t mom cannot complain about anything. (This rule often gets ignored, but it’s worth a shot.)
What About Dads?
As for dads, can they partake too? While I want to be inclusive, I’m cautious about giving a full endorsement. If you’re a dad, have you done everything asked of you to assist with holiday prep? If you think you have, think again. The goal is to be proactive rather than acting like you just landed on Planet Earth four weeks ago. Otherwise, if you settle onto the couch on Moms’ Day Off, I assure you, your partner may begin to mull over some rather dark thoughts.
Happy holidays, and may your December 26 be filled with well-deserved relaxation!
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Summary
December 26 is a day dedicated to moms, allowing them to relax and take a break from their holiday responsibilities. With rules designed for ultimate relaxation, this day is all about enjoying leftovers, lounging in pajamas, and indulging in wine without worrying about household chores.