After we got back from North Carolina, we both came down with brutal head colds. A week later, my husband is finally back to normal, but I’m still fighting to shake mine. Between everything already on my plate and feeling run-down on top of it, I’ve made a decision that honestly feels like the most sensible kind of self-care.

I’m not going to try to put all the Christmas décor away in one big, exhausting push.

Instead, I’m going to do it the way my body can actually handle right now: bit by bit. One tote at a time. One corner of the house at a time. If that means it takes a few extra weeks to get everything packed up, then so be it. There’s no prize for rushing, and there’s definitely no reason to turn “putting away Christmas” into a marathon when I’m still not feeling like myself.

The big win is that the outdoor décor is already put away, and my husband and I tackled that together, so the most time-sensitive part is done. Everything inside can move at a gentler pace. I can pack up a few things on a day I have the energy, then rest without feeling guilty about what’s still out.

And if I’m being honest… there’s a little silver lining here.

If taking it slow means I get to enjoy my happy Christmas tree a little longer, glowing lights, cozy evenings, that soft sparkle that makes the house feel warm, then I’ll happily accept that as a bonus. This season has been full of twists and changes, and right now I’m choosing comfort, recovery, and a home that still feels peaceful while I get back on my feet.

Christmas can take its own sweet time leaving around here.