Santa, the “Perfect Christmas Mom,” and Keeping Jesus at the Center // 13

Is Santa okay for Christian families? And why does Christmas make mums feel like they have to be magical, matchy, and endlessly cheerful? Elyse and Michelle get honest about Santa stories, Pinterest pressure, over-gifting, and the myth of the “perfect Christian Christmas mom.”

They talk pajamas, presents, Hobby Lobby hauls, and then gently pull it all back to Luke, the incarnation, and simple ways to invite Jesus into the chaos instead of trying to perform your way to a picture-perfect December.

Key Takeaways

1. Santa isn’t the savior—Jesus is. You can handle Santa differently in each family, but the non-negotiable is that Christmas is about Christ, not a man in a red suit or a pile of presents.

2. The “perfect Christmas mom” does not exist. Social media, magazines, and movies sell a styled, staged version of Christmas that doesn’t include toddlers, tight budgets, or perimenopausal mood swings—so stop holding yourself to that standard.

3. Simplifying is deeply spiritual, not lazy. Fewer gifts, experience-based presents, realistic traditions, and less “stuff” can ease the mental load and make more room for Scripture, prayer, and actually enjoying your family.

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• Share this episode with a mum who feels behind on shopping, decorating, or “doing Christmas right” and remind her that Jesus, not her performance, holds this season together.

Connect with Us

Elyse – @wholesomemumma Michelle – @itsmemichellecastro Email – [e-mail]

Unfiltered stories. Unapologetic faith. Real motherhood.