The house is finally quiet. The lights are dim, the dishes are (mostly) done, and I’m sitting here tired in that deep, cozy way that only comes after the holidays. The kind of tired that sinks into your bones—but feels earned.

The chaos was real: sticky counters, late nights, wrapping paper everywhere, and a calendar packed with people we love. There were moments I felt stretched thin, running on coffee and leftovers. But there was also laughter echoing through the house, full hearts around the table, and those little in-between moments I know I’ll miss someday.

So yes, I’m exhausted. But I’m also happy. Full—of food, of memories, of gratitude. The holidays leave a mess behind, but they also leave warmth. And tonight, curled up in the quiet, I’ll take both.