Melissa Petro and her daughter.Courtesy of Melissa PetroIn 2022, Melissa Petro's family skipped holiday stress for a meaningful trip to Sri Lanka instead.The trip was a celebration after she sold a book proposal and they met up with family members there.Staying in an Airbnb with hired help enhanced her experience and allowed for true relaxation.From Elf on the Shelf to cookie swaps, matching pajama sets, ugly sweater office parties, and countless other traditions, the holidays can be the most wonderful — and exhausting — time of the year.After I sold a book proposal in November 2022, I had no interest in putting up a tree or wasting money on toys my kids didn't need while battling a seemingly endless parade of wintertime illnesses.Instead, I wanted to celebrate the win and spend meaningful time with my family before having to focus on writing.