Christmas, just like this.
Being single is great. I genuinely enjoyed Christmas this year, even with its quieter moments. Two things can be true at once: life can be good, and it can still feel tender. I love my life as it is right now, and if it’s meant to evolve, it will. Until then, I’m embracing the life I’ve created. Everything leading up to Christmas felt good. I put up my tree, watched Christmas movies, wrapped gifts, baked cookies, and celebrated my birthday. I did all of it alone, and I genuinely enjoyed it. I felt content, grounded, and grateful for the traditions I’ve created for myself. It wasn’t until Christmas Day that things felt different. I spent the morning at my parents' house celebrating with my parents, brothers, sister-in-law, and nieces and nephew, and the afternoon at my aunt and uncle's house with my mom's family. It was full of laughter, good food, and familiar comfort. Eventually, people began heading home, with their kids and their spouses. One by one, the house emptied....