We are entering the season of many things, from cuffing and giving thanks to eating too much and spending too much on gifts. The holidays are almost here again, and it’s a great time to connect with family and friends. This is the time of year when I feel the most grateful for what I have and the wonderful people in my life. But I’m going to be very honest—this is also the time of year when I keep a full bar at home and wine in my bag at all times!

Halloween is first up, and I know it’s not an official big holiday, but it might as well be. It used to be amazing and fun as a child, and now I love seeing all the kids in costumes. But as an adult, being forced to dress up drives me nuts. Finding or making the perfect costume for everyone can be exhausting. One year, I put on a catsuit and held a spider all day by a pool. (Not quite my vibe, but I know I have to do it every year.) Thanksgiving comes and goes in the blink of an eye. And then, between financial stress, endless events, traveling and family dynamics, it’s hard to feel the joy and remember the true meaning of Christmas sometimes.

I was pretty low-key this whole summer, and then I realized what was around the corner. I felt this immense sense of stress, like the year was getting away from me and I was not looking forward to the rest of it. So, you know what I did? I started traveling and visiting friends I haven’t seen in years. I returned to some of the places where I lived as a young adult and had some overdue vacation reunions.

During this time, I was able to take a timeout and reflect on my family and social relationships. Spending time on planes, poolside, and at the beach, gave me time to journal, read, and practice the self-care that we all need. Most importantly, I thought about how I could be more grateful and be my best self for all the people who love me, count on me, and won’t stop asking when I’m coming home. To put it simply, I got my mind right to be ready for the dinners, the crazy questions, and the obligatory costume or onesie pajamas that many of us have in our near-futures.

I’m not trying to be the Grinch here, but I’m just saying, let’s all take the coming weeks to get our minds right and take some time for ourselves before it all starts. By then, all we will be able to do is focus on everyone else’s emotional needs or cooking for potlucks or wrapping gifts through the night…all the things that as women we always do during the holidays.

It’s a blessing to serve and care for others, but it can become overwhelming. And that’s why I’m keeping that gratitude journal right by my glass of wine all season long!

How do you brace yourself for the holiday season?