December has left me done and dusted and the white flag is flying.
Everyone feels the stresses and fatigue of the traditional holidays in different ways. I doubt anyone sails easily through the end of year weeks seamlessly and peaceful. But rather than fight the hustle, or sacrifice myself on the alter of holiday martyrdom, I chose to just not try to win it all this year. I chose a smaller frame that would hold the vision of this year’s December, but it was a frame I could manage.
Choosing to not pull out all the decorations, to let our flocked tree shine as itself without ornaments, and to go with just our stockings at first felt like laziness. Then I considered how well I would have gotten on with the lack of sleep and job fatigue if I had tried to do it all, and I know it was the right way to go this year.
Admittedly, this is a luxury when you do not have children. There is a heavier squat rack to get under when you are a parent during the holidays. Less was more and it helped as I stretched to cover needs at work and travel for family. It also made me feel better about being able to reorganize next for a fresh start into 2026.
In closing, the best gift we received this year was of course, Fury herself. The other day we looked down and there she was, folded up into the tissue paper she loves so much, as if she had tried to wrap herself up. It still brings a sweet smile to my heart each time I look at her here.
I hope everyone out there had the holiday they wanted. And if you found more challenge than celebration, I wish you rest and peace soon as we are nearly there to the end of the year. Hang in there friend!