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As we tiptoe (or stumble, depending on how December treated you) toward the new year, it’s hard not to think about all the traditions people cling to in hopes of coaxing a little extra luck, joy, and prosperity into the next 365 days. Whether you’re in the good ole USA or halfway across the world, the theme is universal: “Please, 2026… be kind.” Let’s take a look at some of the most beloved — and delightfully bizarre — New Year’s Eve traditions and superstitions. One of the most famous is the midnight kiss. According to German and English folklore, the person you kiss at midnight sets the tone for your love life for the entire year. No pressure or anything. Just your romantic destiny hinging on who’s closest when the ball drops. It’s also said to bring good luck, which explains why some people start scanning the room around 11:58 like they’re choosing teams for dodgeball. Another classic: making noise. Horns, fireworks, those little clacker things that sound like a toddler with a vendetta — all of it is meant to scare off evil spirits and negativity. Basically, it’s the one night a year where being obnoxiously loud is considered a public service. Food traditions might be the most delicious part of the night. Many cultures swear by round or ring-shaped foods to symbolize the cycle of life and the hope for wealth — because apparently, if it looks like a coin, it counts. In Spain, people eat 12 grapes at midnight, one for each month of the upcoming year. It sounds cute until you try to cram them in before the clock finishes chiming and suddenly you’re fighting for your life. In the Southern U.S., black-eyed peas and collard greens reign supreme in a dish called Hoppin’ John. The peas represent coins, the greens represent paper money, and the cornbread represents gold. Add pork for forward momentum — pigs root forward, after all — and you’ve basically eaten a financial vision board. Just avoid lobster, whose backward movement is associated with setbacks. Delicious? Yes. Symbolically risky? Also yes. Around the world, things get even more entertaining. In the Philippines, people wear polka dots because the dots look like coins. In Ireland, they bang bread on the walls to chase away bad luck — and possibly any neighbors who were trying to sleep. Many Latin American countries roll empty suitcases around the block to invite travel in the new year. Italians throw old furniture out the window to say goodbye to the past (hopefully after checking that no one is walking below). And in some places, people fling open doors and windows at midnight to let the old year out and the new one in — like an energetic houseguest swap. Some folks believe you shouldn’t cry on New Year’s Eve or you’ll set yourself up for a year of sadness. Others say don’t clean or you might sweep away good luck. Honestly, it sounds like the universe is giving us permission to skip chores and avoid emotional breakdowns for one night, and I’m not arguing. And then there’s the Polar Bear Plunge — a tradition embraced by many, including a branch of my new extended family, the Yachems and the Winkles. They willingly run into freezing water on New Year’s Day to raise money for good causes. It’s brave, it’s generous, and it’s also… very cold. I’ll cheer from the shore with a warm drink, thanks. Of course, the most popular tradition might be the New Year’s resolution, which dates back over 4,000 years to the Babylonians. They promised to repay debts and return borrowed items. Today, we promise to drink more water and go to the gym, and by January 12th, we’re like, “Well… I tried.” So, what’s your favorite New Year’s Eve tradition? Is it on this list, or is it something wonderfully weird we at KTCWK need to hear about? Here’s to thanking 2025 for the good, saying goodbye to the not-so-good, and wishing everyone a blessed 2026. May your chosen tradition bring you joy in the moment — and maybe even a little magic for the year ahead.

Holiday Fatigue The holidays are supposed to be filled with wonder and magic. But just like Oz behind the curtain, it’s usually the women frantically pulling levers, juggling lists, and whisper‑yelling “DON’T TOUCH THAT YET” while everyone else marvels at the Christmas sparkle. What’s meant to be a relaxing season can feel more like an endurance sport — minus the medal. Why does holiday fatigue happen? Because the moment December hits (and for some people the day after Thanksgiving), our normal routines pack their bags and leave. Sure, you may have time off work, but that doesn’t mean you’re lounging in fuzzy socks watching Hallmark movies. No, you’re shopping, decorating, planning menus, coordinating travel, and managing the emotional thermostat of the entire household. The magic doesn’t make itself — though wouldn’t that be nice. All that seasonal hustle takes a toll. Suddenly you’re exhausted, stiff, not sleeping well, forgetting words like “hydration,” and wondering why your body feels like it’s been wrapped in twinkle lights too tightly. Spoiler: it’s because your sleep is off, your meals are irregular, sugar has become its own food group, and your movement consists of “reaching for things on high shelves.” How do you rebound? By giving yourself the same care you give your holiday décor.– Prioritize sleep (yes, even if the tree is slightly crooked).– Choose nourishing snacks that aren’t shaped like reindeer.– Go easy on alcohol and caffeine — your nervous system is already doing the most.– Move gently: stretching, walking, or just standing up slowly like a Victorian ghost.– Drink water like it’s part of the tradition.– Take intentional pauses to breathe.– Create a wind‑down routine so your brain knows it’s time to stop jingling. How do you avoid the trap next year? Start by being honest about what you actually enjoy. If holiday prep doesn’t spark joy, give yourself permission to simplify. A “simple Christmas” is not a failure — it’s a strategy. If you do  love the hustle but want to avoid the crash, plan earlier, say “no” with grace (or without — either works), manage expectations, delegate tasks, and protect your healthy routines like they’re heirloom ornaments. I love the hustle and bustle too, but the older I get, the more I appreciate the beauty of cutting back. And here’s the truth: scaling down isn’t a lack of love or magic. It’s a gift to yourself — the gift of actually enjoying the season you worked so hard to create.

This year was our first blended Christmas — my 24‑year‑old daughter, his 17‑year‑old daughter, and the two of us trying to create something that felt like home for everyone. We’d already survived (and shockingly, thrived ) through a blended Thanksgiving, so I went into Christmas feeling optimistic. I told myself I’d embrace the change, release expectations, and focus on connection. My only real goal was simple: I wanted everyone to feel loved and like they belonged. And I’m not trying to brag… but we nailed it. The girls — who could pass as sisters in looks alone — actually acted  like sisters. As two only children, they seemed to unlock something in each other they didn’t even know they were missing. Watching them laugh together made my heart expand three sizes, Grinch‑style. Then there’s my S.O., who looked so happy the entire time that I’m pretty sure he was one mug of hot cocoa away from starring in a Hallmark movie. My daughter and I have always had joyful Christmases, but this one felt different — like the happiness had been multiplied instead of divided. Now, I’m not saying we’ve cracked the code to blended‑family perfection. Honestly, a lot of the magic came from the girls being open, kind, and genuinely accepting of their parents’ new partner. But if I were to offer a few tips to other families trying to blend their holidays, here’s what worked for us: Plan together.  Everyone got a say — movies, activities, the whole shebang. Honor food preferences.  I took everyone’s likes and dislikes into account. No one should have to fake‑smile through a casserole they secretly hate or a gray overcooked piece of meat (true-story) Manage expectations.  We focused on quality time, not marathon togetherness. Encourage honesty.  Everyone was free to share what they liked, didn’t like, or wanted to tweak for next year. Stay flexible.  We rolled with the punches, even when the punches looked suspiciously like last‑minute schedule changes. Let new traditions emerge.  And they did — beautifully. In the end, everyone embraced our new traditions and our new holiday together. And honestly? It felt like the start of something really special.

by Kicking The Chaos With Kaylin Looking back at 2025, I can’t help but laugh — girl, we survived. Here at Kicking the Chaos, blessings were plenty, and honestly, my heart feels full… and then some, and then twenty. I’ve got a daughter who’s healthy and thriving with grace, and a bonus daughter who showed up like, “Surprise — I’m part of the place! ”Two for one — a BOGO deal life didn’t warn me about, but I’ll take it with joy, zero returns, no doubt. We learned chosen family is magic you feel, the kind that hugs tighter and keeps it all real. And let’s talk about dating the best guy around —the one who makes my heart do that ridiculous sound. We travel, we wander, we Netflix and chill, we adventure like teenagers… but with Advil. This year I embraced 50+ with a grin, stepped out of my comfort zone, and let a whole new chapter begin. I started a blog — who knew it’d be fun to write my chaos out loud and not scare everyone. Old friends reappeared, new stories were spun, and reconnecting reminded me that life’s best circles never really come undone. From my mom’s tender moments to the furbabies’ flair, from the job that keeps me grounded to the girlfriends always there —this year has been wild, messy, sweet, and sincere…a full‑on, unforgettable KTCWK kind of year. So, on this Christmas Day, I’m raising a cheer to the blessings, the chaos, and the joy we shared, to love, to growth, to the memories we cook —2025, you were one for the book. (sorry for the forced rhyming, but I had to do it ;) Merry Christmas!

It's the week before Christmas, and I've been busier than an elf on a double shift. Work was a blur of festivities, volunteer events, girls’ night out, and a family weekend that could’ve used its own itinerary. The office was overflowing with Christmas spirit — and sugar. Desks were decorated, the break room looked like the North Pole’s snack aisle exploded, and even the office chatter felt lighter, probably because everyone was running on equal parts caffeine and candy canes. Then I spent an evening at a local domestic violence family justice center https://www.branchhousetn.org/ , where the holiday magic was just as strong. Santa and Mrs. Claus held court, kids shared their wish lists, “elves” handed out gifts, and doughnuts and chocolate milk flowed like we were all carb-loading for the reindeer games. If you have a domestic violence organization close to your heart, consider giving some of your time — it’s the kind of thing that could make even the Grinch’s heart grow three sizes and maybe even crack a smile. Next up, the girls and I hit the AR Workshop in Bristol, TN. https://www.arworkshop.com/bristol/ We slung paint and glitter onto ceramic Christmas trees with the precision of surgeons… if surgeons were hopped up on holiday cheer and armed with snacks. While our masterpieces dried, we devoured takeout and dove into a double round of white elephant. Let me tell you, these ladies are ruthless — if they spot a gift they want, they’ll snatch it faster than Santa sliding down a chimney. The laughter coming out of that workshop could probably be heard at the North Pole. This is definitely becoming an annual tradition. We wrapped up the weekend with a road trip to Knoxville, TN, to Schulz Brau Brewing Company https://www.schulzbraubrewing.com/ — a German-style brewery with a castle entrance that made me feel like I should’ve worn a cape. The beer garden was transformed into a full-on European Christkindlesmarkt. There was live music, hot chocolate, gluhwein, beer, Santa, German food, excellent people-watching, and even Krampus showed up, because why not. It’s the closest thing East Tennessee has to a German Christmas market, and honestly, it was magical.

After raising my child as a single parent, she suggested that I start dating. I think she was worried about leaving me alone when she went away to school. I gave it some thought and eventually dipped my toe into the dating pool. It was nerve‑racking, but also liberating to date in my 50s+. Of course, I wanted to make a good impression, but I didn’t feel pressure—I was fine with or without a man in my life. In my younger years, I might have played games or held back my true self. But this time, I decided to be authentic from the start. They either liked me or they didn’t. I dated a few frogs (and let me tell you, some of those frogs were very  committed to staying frogs), and then I found a prince. Honestly, I wasn’t sure good guys even existed anymore. Well, that was almost two years ago, and we’re still going strong. We haven’t even had a fight—though we’ve had a few spirited debates over thermostat settings. That said, something happened a month ago that caught me off guard. My boyfriend had a doctor's appointment, and I was his driver. When we checked in, the nurse asked if he had a driver. He gestured to me and said yes. Then she asked, “What is your relation to the driver?” and he replied, “Friend.” It was a gut punch. I couldn’t believe how much that word stung. I went to sit down, and he joined me as if nothing had happened. I decided not to bring it up before his procedure—just in case something went wrong. (Imagine me storming into the recovery room yelling, “This is your FRIEND speaking!” Not the vibe.) Thankfully, he came through fine. On the way home, we stopped for an early dinner. When he asked what I wanted, I said, “Well, as your friend, I would like…” And that’s how the meal continued, me referring to myself as his friend. That’s when he realized what he had done. His excuse was that he didn’t think there was a box for “girlfriend.” He assured me I was much more than a friend, and the next day I received the most beautiful arrangement of flowers at my office addressed to “the most amazing girlfriend.” Now we laugh about it—though I still tease him that if he ever calls me “friend” again, I’ll start introducing him as my “Uber driver.” But it made me wonder: what do people our age—50+ and in serious, committed relationships but not married—call each other? “Girlfriend” and “boyfriend” sound juvenile, like we’re back in high school and he just gave me his class ring. “Partner” or “life partner” feels more like a business arrangement. There’s “better half,” “sweetheart,” “lover,” “Mr. Big,” “mi amore,” “love of my life,” or the more mature “S.O.” (significant other). None of them feel quite right. One evening, my daughter, my boyfriend, and I were talking about her relationship. She wondered when her boyfriend would ask her to be his “official” girlfriend. They had been dating for a while, but she explained they were only “talking” until he asked. Then she looked at my boyfriend and asked when he had asked me. He said he hadn’t—we just understood it. I agreed. I didn’t need him to ask me to “go steady.” Puzzled, my daughter pressed, “Well, what are you all then?” And he replied, “We are us.” And I loved that answer. Maybe in this world of labels, this is one time when a label isn’t necessary. I’ll be content being “us,” and each person is free to define their relationship in whatever way feels right.    Do any of you all have an opinion on this or another term that you all use that you would like to share with KTCWK?

Christmas wreaths adorn doors, windows, fences, light posts—even jeep grills (because nothing says “holiday spirit” like a festive bumper). They show up on Christmas cards and wrapping paper, instantly recognizable as a symbol of the season. But where did this tradition begin? Back in ancient Greece and Rome, wreaths were all about victory and power. Emperors wore them like crowns, and athletes got them as trophies—basically the original “bling.” Fast forward a few centuries, and once Christmas trees started appearing in homes, the holiday wreath was born. Families trimmed their trees into perfect shapes, leaving behind scraps of evergreen. And since nothing went to waste back then, those clippings were woven into circles and hung as ornaments. The circular shape represented divine perfection, while the evergreen itself symbolized resilience, life, and hope—thriving even in the harshest winters. Over time, the wreath evolved from a tree ornament into a standalone decoration, gracing doors and walls as a sign of welcome and celebration. Today, wreaths are as unique as the people who make them. Some are whimsical, like Grinch-themed creations. Others are filled with natural elements: pinecones for long life and prosperity, sage for good health. Still others sparkle with ornaments, baubles, and ribbons. Wreath-making has even become a social tradition, with classes turning into festive girls’ day outings (where the glue gun is the real MVP). What hasn’t changed is the spirit behind them. In a world that often favors tossing things out and buying something new, the wreath reminds us of a time when upcycling wasn’t trendy—it was survival. It’s a circle of creativity, resilience, and joy—woven from scraps, yet carrying centuries of meaning.

Holidays with family are supposed to be happy, fun, and festive. But what if there’s a narcissist in the mix? Suddenly the season of joy becomes the season of “Oh no, here we go again.” A narcissist is someone who is excessively self‑centered, with an inflated sense of self‑importance, a deep need for admiration, and a baffling lack of empathy. Think of someone who could turn a simple gift exchange into a one‑person Broadway show—starring them, directed by them, and funded by your emotional energy. Narcissists thrive on chaos and attention, and they will try to turn any special occasion into a circus tent with themselves as the ringmaster. And if you’ve been through this for years, you already know: they don’t suddenly wake up on December 25th full of peace, love, and accountability. My daughter and I know this all too well. If you don’t react to their gifts like you’ve just won a car on a game show, there will be consequences. So instead of walking on eggshells (which, frankly, is terrible for your arches), here are some strategies to protect your peace and reclaim your joy. 1. Choose Your Audience You don’t have to spend the holiday with your family if it means enduring abuse. Celebrate with your chosen family—the people who don’t require a performance. You can still see the relatives you love before or after the holiday, safely avoiding the narcissist’s stage time. This isn’t giving them control—it’s taking back the remote and changing the channel. 2. Manage Expectations Don’t expect apologies, accountability, or sudden Grinch‑heart‑grows‑three‑sizes moments. Prepare for the same old behavior, and you won’t be disappointed. It’s emotional budgeting. 3. Set Limits Decide how much time you’re willing to spend with this person and when you’re done. Think of it like setting a timer on a scented candle—lovely for a bit, but you’re not letting it burn the house down. 4. Take Care of Yourself Get a good night’s sleep before entering the “wolf’s den.” Hydrate. Stretch. Maybe do a few warm‑up breaths. When they inevitably poke at you, resist the urge to take the bait. Keep busy—play with the kids, take a walk, or hang out with the people who don’t drain your soul like a phone battery stuck on 1%. 5. Find Humor Bring a “narcissist bingo card”—a dark‑humor masterpiece featuring classics like “interrupts someone’s story,” “gives a gift that’s really about them,” and “makes the holiday about their childhood trauma for the 47th year in a row.” When you or your allies hit bingo, share a discreet laugh or use it as your cue to exit stage left. 6. Plan Self‑Care After the holiday, schedule something restorative—a spa day, a quiet retreat, or time with friends who don’t require emotional hazard pay. Having something to look forward to helps you stay grounded. In the end, the trick is to take their power away by living a happy life and enjoying a festive holiday—preferably one where you’re not dodging emotional shrapnel. Because your joy is the one thing a narcissist can’t stand, and honestly, that’s reason enough to shine.

There’s nothing wrong with a mug of classic Swiss Miss — it’s the comfort food of winter. But sometimes, you want something that feels a little more chic, a little more old‑world. Maybe you’re reminiscing about a long‑ago trip to the German Christmas Markets, or maybe you just want to sip something that makes you feel like you’re in a Parisian café or a Viennese coffeehouse. Enter: European Hot Chocolate. Unlike the instant cocoa we grew up with, this version is thick, rich, and unapologetically indulgent. 🥛 The Base Whole milk (not water!): 1 ½ cups Heavy cream: ½ cup, because why stop at cozy when you can have decadent? Warm these together in a saucepan until gently heated. 🍫 The Chocolate Bittersweet chocolate (70% dark): 7 ounces, chopped. Pro tip: use good quality chocolate — Godiva, Ghirardelli, Lindt — because this is no time for shortcuts. Stir into the warm milk mixture until melted and smooth. 🍬 Sweeten & Enhance Powdered sugar: 2 tablespoons (add a pinch more if you like it sweeter). Optional depth: ½ teaspoon espresso powder 1 teaspoon cocoa powder Optional thickness: 1 tablespoon cornstarch, whisked in for that luxurious, spoon‑worthy texture. 🍦 The Crown Jewel: Whipped Cream Because what’s European hot chocolate without a cloud of whipped cream on top? 1 cup heavy cream ¼ cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Whip with a mixer until stiff peaks form. Keep refrigerated until serving (if you can resist sneaking a taste). ✨ Serving Suggestion Pour into your favorite mug, top with a generous dollop of whipped cream, and maybe dust with cocoa powder for drama. Sip slowly, savor deeply, and let yourself be transported — whether to Paris, Vienna, or just your own couch with twinkle lights glowing.

While I may still think I’m in my 30s — and often act like it — my body feels every bit of 50+. The holidays, wonderful as they are, can feel especially exhausting. So how do we keep ourselves healthy and happy during this busy season? Let’s start with the basics: sleep. I’m not a great sleeper anyway, but getting rest — whether it’s a full night, a nap, or just lying down with your eyes closed pretending to meditate — can be a gamechanger. Especially when the season tries to run us ragged. 🌙 Prioritize Rest Sleep as self-care: Think of it as the ultimate holiday upgrade — better than any gadget under the tree. Even a 20‑minute nap can turn you from Grinch to glitter. Ritualize bedtime: Herbal tea, a book, or writing tomorrow’s to‑do list — basically tricking your brain into thinking you’re a responsible adult. Be gentle with yourself: If sleep doesn’t come easily, rest still counts. Bonus points if you convince your family you’re wrapping presents and you are really just curled up reading a good blog. 🥗 Nourish Your Body Balanced meals: Anchor your day with protein and fiber so you don’t crash face‑first into the cookie tray. Hydration matters: Water is the unsung hero of the holidays. Champagne is festive, but hydration is survival. Mindful indulgence: Eat the fudge. Slowly. With joy. Pretend you’re in a Hallmark movie montage. 🚶‍♀️ Move with Intention Micro‑movements: Stretch while the cookies bake, walk after dinner, or dance to Mariah Carey like nobody’s watching (except your dogs, who will judge). Gentle exercise: Yoga or tai chi can be grounding — and let’s be honest, it’s also a socially acceptable way to lie on the floor. Wrapping presents: when you’re wrapping presents at this age, do yourself a favor: sit at a table. Because if you sit on the floor, you’re going to need a forklift to pick yourself up and a handful of ibuprofen for the aches and pains. Save your back, save your knees, and wrap with wisdom. 💖 Protect Your Energy Say no gracefully: “I’d love to, but my couch has already RSVP’d yes.” Create quiet rituals: Journaling, prayer, or just sitting with your dogs — they’re excellent listeners and don’t interrupt with unsolicited holiday advice. Lean on connection: Delegate tasks. Remember, even Santa doesn’t do it alone — he’s got elves. 🎄 Anchor in Joy Focus on meaning: Traditions like your Christmas card ritual or pumpkin chunking remind you why the season matters more than the shopping list. Celebrate small wins: A nap taken, a laugh shared, a pie that didn’t burn — these are victories worth toasting. Give yourself grace: The holidays aren’t about perfection; they’re about presence. And maybe presents, too, but mostly presence. ✨ The holidays will always be busy, but they don’t have to leave us depleted. With a little rest, nourishment, movement, and humor, we can show up for the season with more joy — and maybe even a little glitter.

When you reach your fabulous fifties, the holidays often look a little different. Life brings change, and with it, traditions shift. Maybe you’ve lost loved ones who were the heart of your celebrations. Maybe your children are grown and starting families of their own. Or maybe you’re simply tired of all the whoopla and want to scale things back. But different doesn’t mean joyless. You don’t have to be a Scrooge to embrace a new kind of holiday spirit. Here are a few ways to keep the cheer alive: Set the mood at home with Christmas-scented candles, jingle bell music, simmering wassail, and just the right touch of festive décor. Host cozy gatherings—invite friends for Christmas movies, cookies, popcorn, or even a micro-gift exchange. Step out into the community—parades, craft festivals, neighborhood light displays, and local theater productions are all brimming with holiday magic. My S.O. and I just attended the Barter Theater's production of How the Grinch Stole Christmas in Abingdon, Virginia. This was another fabulous double date with my friend Speedy and her S.O., Jackson. This production couldn't have been more clever as it was told from Max's perspective. Not to mention that Jim Carrey has nothing on Sean Maximo Campos. Give back—bake treats for neighbors, volunteer at a toy drive, or adopt a Christmas angel through a local shelter if you miss shopping for little ones. Get crafty—gather your girlfriends for a wreath-making class or a DIY holiday project. (Stay tuned for the Christmas craft my friends and I have planned—it promises laughter, glitter, and maybe a little hot glue chaos!) Whether you’re carrying on old traditions, tweaking them to fit your new stage of life, or creating entirely fresh ones, the goal is simple: do what brings a smile to your face—or to the faces of those around you.

Some people say not to waste time sleeping because “you’ll sleep when you’re dead.” I’ve never been a great sleeper, but I treasure a good night’s rest. As a single parent, I was always alert to the slightest noise, but that doesn’t mean I undervalue sleep. Quite the opposite—I believe sleep is a cure-all. If you’re having a rough day, go to bed early and wake up with a fresh start. If you’re feeling under the weather, curl up with your favorite blanket in a dark room and take a two-hour nap. If you’re drained—mentally or physically—rest is the best medicine. If you have the time, sleep in on the weekend and just laze. The other night, my girlfriends and I found ourselves talking about sheets of all things. A couple of them swore by Boll & Branch (and no I am not a paid spokesperson), insisting they’d never slept more comfortably. They described it as if the Sandman himself had tucked them in—luxurious, cozy, and instantly sleep-inducing. I haven’t splurged on them yet, but I’m tempted. Then the conversation turned to pajamas, specifically the plush sets from Lake (again, I am not a paid spokesperson). Meanwhile, I’m usually in an old T-shirt, which might explain my less-than-stellar sleep habits. Maybe I need to upgrade my sleep uniform. The right textures and fabrics might just be the cherry on top of a good night’s rest. Still, I stand by my declaration: sleep is a cure-all. Whether it’s the perfect sheet set, your favorite blanket, the coziest pajamas, or simply the most relaxing spot in the house, a good snooze can transform your mood and restore your health. Do you have a favorite sheet, blanket, jammie brand, or sleep ritual that you would like to share with us here at Kicking the Chaos?