What is the definitive guide to surviving winter break according to Meredith Masony?

I don’t actually have a single “definitive guide” list written out anywhere, but based on what I share in my winter break videos, my survival plan usually comes down to a few big themes:

• Lower the bar: Stop trying to create a magical, Pinterest-perfect break. Survival is success.
• Structure the days: A loose routine (meals, outside time, quiet time, screens) keeps everyone sane.
• Protect your sanity: Non‑negotiable “me time” every day, even 15 minutes.
• Say no: You don’t have to do every event, craft, or outing.
• Laugh about the chaos: If you can’t fix it, at least get a good story out of it.

Which part of winter break is hardest for you right now—bored kids, family gatherings, or just total exhaustion?