Let’s face it: the run-up to Christmas is always a bit... much. Don’t get me wrong - I love the twinkling lights, cozy decorations, and general holiday cheer. But the shopping? The endless to-do lists? It’s like someone turned life’s volume all the way up to max.
Yet somehow, when the big day finally rolls around, it all just works out. This year? It was an unexpectedly delightful whirlwind of calories, chaos, and belly laughs I didn’t even know I needed.
The Great Family Invasion
This year, the whole family gathered to kick off Christmas at my sister’s new house, and let me tell you - she crushed it. Delicious food, festive drinks, and a cozy vibe that practically shouted, “Hosting? Nailed it.”
Since my parents live just a short walk away, we stayed there, which officially became HQ for Christmas Day. And the morning? Pure magic. ✨
The kids were up bright and early, buzzing with excitement and convinced they’d heard Santa sneaking around during the night (though it was probably just someone making a late-night bathroom run).
And me? Miraculously, I stayed in bed until 7 am - a true Christmas miracle. 🙌 Let’s be real: if I’d been woken up at 5 am, this blog post might’ve had a very different tone.
Man vs. Food: The Christmas Showdown
By 2 pm, it was game on. Christmas dinner arrived like an edible Olympic event - turkey, stuffing, roast potatoes, and everything else you’d expect from a meal designed to leave you in a glorious self-inflicted food coma. It was Man vs. Food, but with tinsel. Naturally, I won.
The pigs in blankets? They didn’t stand a chance.
VR Meets Reality
Then came the peak of Christmas chaos.
Cue the VR headset and my sister, fully immersed in a pixellated world, dodging and flailing as if her life depended on it.
Enter the family dog 🐶 - completely unaware of the high-stakes virtual battle happening around him - brushing against her leg. Cue total panic. She screamed, flailed, and in a desperate attempt to survive, launched the VR controller straight at Luke.
Somehow, Luke pulled off a Matrix-worthy catch while holding a beer in his other hand. The beer? Not so lucky - it ended up all over him and the sofa. But hey, Luke dodged a concussion, so we’ll call it a win.
The dog? Completely unfazed.
The rest of us? Laughing so hard we were practically in tears.
A Surprisingly Chill Mind
Here’s the twist: despite the chaos of laughter, noise, and the occasional flying VR controller, my mind was unexpectedly at ease. Normally, it’s like my brain is hosting its own high-speed race, packed with deadlines, to-do lists, and the relentless hum of overthinking. But this Christmas? It felt like someone finally hit the mute button 🔇. Maybe it was the sheer amount of food I’d consumed. Maybe it was the joy of watching my family’s chaos unfold. Or maybe, for once, my overthinking just decided to take the day off.
Whatever the reason, I felt chilled out - like the universe had handed me the gift of peaceful thoughts. 🎁 (Highly recommended, by the way.)
Gratitude Hits Different
This year, gratitude hit differently - not just because Luke narrowly dodged a flying VR controller (though, let’s be honest, that was a minor Christmas miracle). Last Christmas was tough, with Luke undergoing chemo, but this year? This year felt lighter. It felt... good.
We also welcomed a new little addition to the family 👶 - another nephew - bringing the kid count to five. Watching them all play together was pure magic, even if my boys decided to teach my two-year-old niece how to shoot toy guns (apparently, she absolutely loved it).
This Christmas reminded me just how precious health and togetherness are. Life throws curveballs, so when you get those rare moments where everyone’s well and simply enjoying each other’s company, you grab it with both hands. 🤲
A Shift in Perspective
Compared to last year, life feels noticeably lighter. Work is still demanding, but with Esme now onboard, I’m able to focus more on guiding the business forward. It’s incredible how a little support can turn the chaos of juggling everything into something far more manageable.
Looking back, I can see the progress - not just in life’s circumstances, but in myself. I’m learning to set boundaries, protect what matters, and appreciate the messy process of growth.
Growth in The Mess
If you’re feeling stuck right now, hear me out: a lot can change in a year. Not just your circumstances, but you. This time last year, I was in a completely different headspace. Now? I feel clearer, more purposeful, and more confident about where I’m going. Sometimes, you have to fall apart before you can rebuild stronger 💥. Growth is messy, but it’s powerful. Trust me - being stuck doesn’t last forever.
About Those Drinks...
Surprise: I didn’t have a single drink on Christmas Day. No dramatic decision, no grand gesture - I just ate so much that there was literally no room for wine 🍷.
These days, my relationship with alcohol has shifted. I still enjoy the occasional drink, but it doesn’t hold the same place it once did. And that’s okay. For some, a good drink is the perfect way to unwind, loosen up, and create memories. For others, it’s something they can take or leave.
The key? Do what works for you. If a glass of wine makes your night, pour it. If it doesn’t, skip it. Life isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is balance ⚖️. It’s all about figuring out what serves you - and letting go of what doesn’t.
Imperfectly Perfect
Life has a way of surprising us, often when we least expect it – and trust me, I’ve seen how quickly everything can change. Right now, though, I’m simply grateful. Grateful for my family’s health, the laughter and support of friends, and all the moments that remind me what really matters.
As 2024 winds down, let’s savour what’s left. Rest (if you’re fortunate enough to), recharge 🔋, and embrace every moment. Here’s to another year ahead - filled with chaos, adventure, and stories worth sharing again and again.