TLDR VERSION (I’m just here for a link or recipe)

Over the years, my mornings have shifted through pregnancies, newborn seasons, work transitions, personal growth, and everything in between. But one thing has stayed the same: when I start my day intentionally, I feel more grounded, more present, and more aligned with the kind of mom, wife, and woman I want to be.

This time of year feels especially tender. Right before Christmas break, the house is fuller, the to-do list is longer, and the days feel both magical and chaotic all at once. That’s why my morning routine in this season isn’t about perfection or productivity – it’s about creating steadiness in the middle of the swirl.

It’s about filling up first so I can pour out from a place of fullness.

Here’s what my mornings look like right now, in this cozy, busy, almost-Christmas season.

I try to wake up before the rest of the house — ideally before the sun, when the Christmas tree lights are still glowing and everything feels quiet and still. Realistically, it doesn’t always happen, but when it does, the silence feels extra sacred.

Here are a few tips that help me get up and start on the right foot! 

There’s nothing like the comfort of a slow morning at home, and for me, that always starts with coffee. I love the simple ritual of pressing a button on my Nespresso and watching it brew that first warm cup. It’s such a cozy, grounding way to ease into the day—quiet, comforting, and unhurried.

Instead of grabbing my phone, I let myself wake slowly. I stretch, take a few deep breaths, and sometimes whisper a short prayer or affirmation — something simple to help me center myself before the day unfolds.

Those first 5–10 minutes set the tone. They remind me that even in the busiest season of the year, I still get to choose how I show up.

Next, I sit down with my journal and devotional. This part of my morning is truly the anchor for everything else. I’ll read a few verses of scripture or a devotional passage, then reflect—writing down a few things I’m grateful for, a truth I want to hold onto, or a prayer for the day.

Some mornings, I only get 5 quiet minutes. Others, I linger longer. Either way, this time reminds me who I am, what matters, and where my peace comes from.

Gratitude journaling, even in its simplest form, shifts my mindset. It moves me from “what needs to be done” to “what I already have.” And that is a powerful place to start the day.

One thing that’s been especially helpful this season is remembering that mornings don’t have to fall on one person. This routine is something my husband and I share and talk through. We’ve learned that when expectations are clear, mornings feel calmer for everyone.

For us, Cody always unloads the dishwasher while I make breakfast with the kids. It’s a small thing, but it makes such a difference. The mental load feels lighter when we’re working as a team instead of one person carrying it all.

After waking up, I start with a cold plunge. It’s not always glamorous (or easy when it’s chilly outside), but it wakes me up instantly and helps me feel clear-headed and energized. It’s become one of those non-negotiables that anchors my mornings.

Right after, I usually have a classic mom-brain moment and realize my supplements are completely out of control. Bottles everywhere, half-open organizers, no system in sight. So some mornings turn into a quick supplement re-organization session – because future me deserves a little help too.

Once that’s done, I’ll deep clean one small area of the house. Nothing overwhelming — maybe the kitchen counters, a bathroom, or a quick reset of the living room. There’s something about having one clean space that makes the whole house feel calmer, especially with Christmas chaos looming.

This wet/dry mop has been a GAME CHANGER.

Next, I work out – but in this season, I’m loving doing it with a friend. It makes movement feel lighter, more fun, and less like another thing on the checklist. We talk, laugh, encourage each other, and leave feeling stronger – physically and emotionally.

The workout itself changes day to day, but the goal stays the same: move my body in a way that feels supportive and sustainable. Consistency over intensity. Showing up over doing it perfectly.

After the workout, I get ready. I shower, do my skincare, throw on something comfy but put-together — and inevitably realize… I still need to wrap presents.

With the kids about to be home for Christmas break, this moment always sneaks up on me. So some mornings include a quick wrapping session – gifts spread across the floor, tape everywhere, holiday music playing in the background. It’s messy, imperfect, and very on-brand for this season.

Once that’s done, I finish getting ready and shift into full working mama mode and get started on the rest of my day!

My mornings right now aren’t perfect. They’re layered with holiday prep, shared responsibilities, mom-brain moments, and a lot of grace. But they’re intentional – and that’s what matters.

This rhythm fills me up spiritually, mentally, and physically, so I can show up with more patience, joy, and presence for the people I love.

My encouragement as Christmas approaches? Start small. Choose one or two habits that ground you and build from there. Share the load when you can. Let your routine flex with the season.